In order to file a habeas petition in California, you must meet two criteria: You must be in custody. The Writ of Habeas Corpus protects prison inmates from false imprisonment to ensure people are not thrown into jail unlawfully.A habeas corpus petition in California allows you to challenge your conviction or sentencing. You can file it only after exhausting all criminal appeals. There is an official form (Judicial Council Form HC-001) for filing a state petition for writ of habeas corpus. The Clerk is directed to issue a Writ of Habeas Corpus returnable before said Superior Court in Department. Types of legal assistance: Help completing forms, Filings with USCIS ; Location: 3727 W 6th Street, Suite 512, Los Angeles, CA 90020. If you are filing this petition in the superior court, you only need to file the original unless local rules require additional copies. Procedure for a California Writ of Habeas Corpus - Los Angeles Criminal Appeals Lawyer. Latin for "that you have the body.