1. To use this form, you must be a person who is or will be serving a sentence under a judgment against you in a state court. Your petition must be filed with the.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. This document is a petition for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a Virginia court. 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. (a) Form of petition; copies. Note that these are citations to the Rules Governing § 2254 Cases in the United. Presently incarcerated. 5. Do not put anything below the name of the court. Petition; contents thereof; supreme court may prescribe form of petition, verification and writ; duties of clerk.