A habeas corpus petition attacking a criminal conviction or sentence shall be filed within two years from the date of final judgment in the trial court. Under Virginia law, habeas corpus is a civil proceeding used to challenge and remedy due process violations.These instructions and forms are provided to those who seek to petition the Supreme. 1. The petition for writ of habeas corpus form is designed to help you prepare a petition seeking relief pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2254. The Latin phrase habeas corpus translates to "you have the body. The law in the area is an intricate weave of statute and case law. 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. (a) Form of petition; copies. 53-4A-1. Right to habeas corpus for post-conviction review; jurisdiction; when contention deemed finally adjudicated or waived; effect upon other remedie. Post-conviction Habeas Corpus Form: Use this form to file a post-conviction habeas corpus petition.