Submitted by: Lorena Slomanson, Outreach and Community Relations Manager, Legal Aid Society of San Diego

When Marcy walked into the Vista courthouse, she was carrying more than a stack of paperwork—she was carrying the weight of fear, confusion, and heartbreak. She came to file a domestic violence restraining order against her own son, whose untreated behavioral health issues had escalated to violence. 

Marcy went to One Safe Place in San Marcos for help with the restraining order paperwork. She was referred there by Robin, a social worker with the Aging and Independence Services, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, for services related to domestic violence. 

Marcy learned that filing a restraining order meant her son could no longer live with her—a heartbreaking realization. Where would he go? Who would take care of him? 

Diana, the social worker at One Safe Place told her something that gave her hope. Marcy learned about the CARE Act, and how filing a CARE Court petition could potentially connect her son with a full ecosystem of behavioral health treatment and even housing. If the petition was approved, her son could be placed in a program that includes supportive housing, mental health treatment, and care coordination. 

“I was filled with worry, confusion, and financial obstacles,” Marcy shared. “I was desperately trying to file a CARE Act petition, but the process felt overwhelming and far beyond what I could handle on my own.” 

That’s when Marcy was referred to the Legal Aid Society of San Diego. At Legal Aid Society of San Diego’s CARE Act Clinic, Advocate Eli and Staff Attorney Mackenzie worked together to guide her through each step of the petition. By the end of the day, her petition was filed—a moment she describes as the first real hope she had felt in a long time. 

In just a week and a half, her case was processed and referred to a CARE Team Case Manager to help locate her son and connect him with the behavioral health treatment and housing he desperately needed. Fortunately, CARE Act Case Manager Stephanie located Marcy’s son. He is housed and has chosen to participate in a 12-month sustainability program. 

“I can’t begin to describe the gratitude I feel for Eli and Mackenzie,” Marcy said. “Their persistence, compassion, and support made all the difference. Without Legal Aid Society of San Diego, I would have been looking at legal costs anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000, which was simply not possible for me.” 

Today, Marcy’s life feels more hopeful, and has this message for others: 

“Filing a CARE Act petition is complicated and intimidating, but Legal Aid Society of San Diego has the knowledge and experience to guide families through it. Thanks to them, I didn’t have to go through this alone. What once felt overwhelming now feels possible. Thanks to Legal Aid Society of San Diego, my son is finally on the path to getting the care he needs—and I have hope again.”

To explore ways to get involved or learn more about our work, visit www.lassd.org