What role does the trial court clerk’s file play in Connecticut habeas corpus petitions? You can find out on this page. For more information on other elements of habeas corpus in Connecticut, you can refer to the other pages in this section.

Judgment

During the process of identifying meritorious claims and amending the petition, habeas counsel should obtain a copy of the judgment. This is prepared by the trial court clerk. It will be found in the clerk’s file, as well as in the appellate record. It is typically a one or two page document. Practice Book § 23-36 provides the filing of a copy of any portion of the clerk’s file in habeas court.

Other Records

During the process of identifying meritorious claims and amending the petition, habeas counsel should obtain a copy of any and all notes issued by the jury. The notes will be found in the trial court clerk’s file. The notes can be helpful in establishing harmful error, in that they often reveal the jury’s focus. Practice Book § 23-36 provides for the filing of a copy of any portion of the clerk’s file in the habeas court.

Trial Exhibits

During the process of identifying meritorious claims and amending the petition, habeas counsel should obtain a copy of the trial exhibit list. Habeas counsel should also travel to the clerk’s office and physically examine the exhibits introduced in evidence at trial. This ensures both the existence of the exhibits and counsel’s familiarity with the exhibits. Practice Book § 23-36 provides for the filing of a copy of any portion of the clerk’s file in the habeas court.

Learn More about the Habeas Trial Court Clerk’s File in Connecticut

Are you interested in filing a habeas corpus petition, or do you know someone who is? Consider contacting an attorney to learn more about the trial court clerk’s file in Connecticut habeas corpus cases.