The right to file a petition for writ of habeas corpus is guaranteed by the California constitution. In order to be eligible to petition for such relief, the petitioner must be “in custody,” either actually or constructively.
Typical examples where a court has granted a habeas corpus petition include claims of new evidence discovered in the case, ineffective assistance of counsel, prosecutorial misconduct, incompetence to stand trial, and challenging conditions of confinement.
A Writ of Habeas Corpus literally translates to bring a body before the court. A writ is an order from a higher court to a lower court or government agency or official. When you file a petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus, you are asking the court to order the government agency to appear and bring you before the court.
The rules for filing a federal writ of habeas corpus are codified in 28 U.S.C. §§ 2241-2256. Generally, one cannot file a writ of habeas corpus unless they show the government has detained them. State prisoners cannot file a federal writ unless they exhaust all available state remedies.
The court must rule on a petition for writ of habeas corpus within 60 days after the petition is filed. (B) If the court fails to rule on the petition within 60 days of its filing, the petitioner may file a notice and request for ruling.
State every ground (reason) that supports your claim that you are being held in violation of the Constitution, laws, or treaties of the United States. Attach additional pages if you have more than four grounds. State the facts supporting each ground. Any legal arguments must be submitted in a separate memorandum.
Dial 888-882-6878 or visit the CourtCall website at urtcall to schedule a remote appearance for matters scheduled on participating calendars.
Civil Division of the San Bernardino District, 247 West 3rd St, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 (located in the San Bernardino Justice Center) Filings Accepted: C.E.Q.A. Civil (limited and unlimited)
Superior courts in California are the state trial courts with general jurisdiction to hear and decide any civil or criminal action which is not specially designated to be heard in some other court or before a governmental agency.
Although eFiling is strongly encouraged, at this time, it is voluntary. Those who prefer to file in person or through the mail can continue to do so. We invite you to visit our eFiling webpage for more information on eFiling rules, tips to ensure your filing is accepted, and much more.