A petition for writ of habeas corpus is presumptively timely if filed within 36 months after appointment of habeas corpus counsel. How Do I Fill Out the Form?There is an official form (Judicial Council Form HC-001) for filing a state petition for writ of habeas corpus. Attorney James M. Crawford has extensive experience handling criminal appeals in state and federal courts, as well as petitions for habeas corpus. Ask the court for a writ of habeas corpus (a court order telling the facility director to bring you to the court and show a legal reason for holding you) To challenge your conviction, speak with an OC criminal defense lawyer about a Writ of Habeas Corpus at (714) 530-9690. You should use this form if. A Writ of Habeas Corpus is a legal document that asks a court to look into the circumstances of your detention and, if necessary, change them. A habeas corpus petition in California allows you to challenge your conviction or sentencing. You can file it only after exhausting all criminal appeals.