The Writ of Habeas Corpus is one of the oldest principles of criminal law in the United States with a rich history dating back to medieval times. There are procedural rules that apply to Habeas Corpus Petitions.They are: o Rules Governing Habeas Corpus Cases Under Section 2254 in the U.S. District. The Habeas Corpus petition claims the arrest, sentence, or trial violated constitutional law, making imprisonment unlawful. Habeas Corpus (Trans: you have the body) -- A writ which brings a person before a court. In United States law, habeas corpus is a recourse challenging the reasons or conditions of a person's confinement under color of law. Instructions and form for filing a petition for writ of habeas corpus under 28 USC § 2254. Habeas petitions generally are filed in the district court with jurisdiction over the filer's place of custody. Maryland Rule of Procedure Z46, adopted Sept. The "Great Writ" of habeas corpus is a fundamental right in the Constitution that protects against unlawful and indefinite imprisonment.