This manual explains how someone without a lawyer can file a petition for writ of habeas corpus in the California state courts. The court must rule on a petition for writ of habeas corpus within 60 days after the petition is filed.A Petition for writ of habeas corpus is not a criminal appeal. A criminal appeal, if successful, may overturn a conviction. On August 10, 2015, petitioner filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus in the trial court. Forms for filing petitions for writ of habeas corpus and other information should be available in the prison law library. A person is only able to file a petition of habeas corpus if he or she is being detained or because one's freedom is restricted as the result of a conviction. A habeas court petition can be filed in state court or in federal court if all state options have been exhausted. Any person "in custody" can file a state habeas corpus petition. May petition without notice for a writ of habeas corpus to inquire into the cause of such detention and for deliverance.").