(a) The word applicant, as used in this chapter, refers to the person for whose relief the application for a writ of habeas corpus is presented.
(b) An application for a writ of habeas corpus may be signed and presented on behalf of an applicant by any person, who shall be referred to as the petitioner.

Terms Used In Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 11.13

  • Habeas corpus: A writ that is usually used to bring a prisoner before the court to determine the legality of his imprisonment. It may also be used to bring a person in custody before the court to give testimony, or to be prosecuted.
  • Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
  • Signed: includes any symbol executed or adopted by a person with present intention to authenticate a writing. See Texas Government Code 311.005
  • Writ: A formal written command, issued from the court, requiring the performance of a specific act.

(c) A petitioner is not a party to a proceeding under this chapter.
(d) A petitioner who is not the applicant’s attorney may not take any additional actions on behalf of the applicant that would constitute the practice of law.