In your petition, clearly explain why you are being held illegally. If the petitioner has sufficient funds, the petition shall be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Criminal Division, and the filing fee shall be paid.By petitioning for a writ, you are asking the court to determine whether your conviction or sentence is illegal. No. PETITION FOR WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS AD TESTIFICANDUM. All Illinois Courts must accept these forms. This petition, called a writ of Habeas Corpus, is filed in Federal Court (US District Court ) whether you are serving time in a federal or state prison. To file a habeas corpus petition, you must prepare a written request to a court or judge, known as a writ of habeas corpus. You may appeal the denial of your application for a writ of habeas corpus to the state's highest court. Pizzuto's conviction must be set aside or, in the alternative, his sentence. The "Original" Writ of Habeas Corpus in the Supreme Court, 1962 SUPREME COURT REVIEW. 153.