reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.2:1. Saliva or tissue sample required for DNA analysis after arrest for a violent felony

Every person arrested for the commission or attempted commission of a violent felony as defined in § 19.2-297.1 or a violation or attempt to commit a violation of § 18.2-31, 18.2-89, 18.2-90, 18.2-91, or 18.2-92, shall have a sample of his saliva or tissue taken for DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) analysis to determine identification characteristics specific to the person. After a determination by a magistrate or a grand jury that probable cause exists for the arrest, a sample shall be taken prior to the person's release from custody. The analysis shall be performed by the Department of Forensic Science or other entity designated by the Department. The identification characteristics of the profile resulting from the DNA analysis shall be stored and maintained by the Department in a DNA data bank and shall be made available as provided in § 19.2-310.5.
The clerk of the court shall notify the Department of final disposition of the criminal proceedings. If the charge for which the sample was taken is dismissed or the defendant is acquitted at trial, the Department shall destroy the sample and all records thereof, provided there is no other pending qualifying warrant or capias for an arrest or conviction that would otherwise require that the sample remain in the data bank.
2002, cc. 753, 773; 2003, c. 150; 2004, c. 445; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2006, c. 182; 2020, c. 87.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.3. Procedures for withdrawal of blood, saliva or tissue sample for DNA analysis

Each sample required pursuant to § 19.2-310.2 from persons who are to be incarcerated shall be withdrawn at the receiving unit or at such other place as is designated by the Department of Corrections or, in the case of a juvenile, the Department of Juvenile Justice. The required samples from persons who are not sentenced to a term of confinement shall be withdrawn at a time and place specified by the sentencing court. Only a correctional health nurse technician or a physician, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, graduate laboratory technician, or phlebotomist shall withdraw any blood sample to be submitted for analysis. No civil liability shall attach to any person authorized to withdraw blood, saliva or tissue as provided herein as a result of the act of withdrawing blood, saliva or tissue from any person submitting thereto, provided the blood, saliva or tissue was withdrawn according to recognized medical procedures. However, no person shall be relieved from liability for negligence in the withdrawing of any blood, saliva or tissue sample.
Chemically clean sterile disposable needles and vacuum draw tubes or swabs shall be used for all samples. The tube or envelope containing the sample shall be sealed and secured to prevent tampering with the contents. The agency submitting the sample shall provide information pertaining to the sample by (i) logging such information into the Department of Forensic Science DNA data bank sample tracking system at the time of collection or (ii) submitting such information to the Department of Forensic Science along with the sample. The steps herein set forth relating to the taking, handling, identification, and disposition of blood, saliva or tissue samples are procedural and not substantive. Substantial compliance therewith shall be deemed to be sufficient. The samples shall be mailed or transported to the Department of Forensic Science not more than 15 days following withdrawal and shall be analyzed and stored in the DNA data bank in accordance with §§ 19.2-310.4 and 19.2-310.5.
1990, c. 669; 1997, c. 862; 1998, c. 280; 2003, c. 150; 2004, c. 440; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2022, cc. 41, 42.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.3:1. Procedures for taking saliva or tissue sample for DNA analysis

A. Each sample required pursuant to § 19.2-310.2:1 from persons arrested shall be taken before release from custody at such place as is designated by the law-enforcement agency responsible for arrest booking in the jurisdiction. Samples shall be taken in accordance with procedures adopted by the Department of Forensic Science. The sample shall be sealed and secured to prevent tampering with the contents and be accompanied by a copy of the arrest warrant or capias. The agency submitting the sample shall provide information pertaining to the sample by (i) logging such information into the Department of Forensic Science DNA data bank sample tracking system at the time of collection or (ii) submitting such information to the Department of Forensic Science along with the sample. The steps herein set forth relating to the taking, handling, identification, and disposition of saliva or tissue samples are procedural and not substantive. The sample shall be mailed or transported to the Department of Forensic Science not more than 15 days following withdrawal and shall be analyzed and stored in the DNA data bank in accordance with §§ 19.2-310.4 and 19.2-310.5.
B. Substantial compliance therewith shall be deemed to be sufficient. If a sample from the individual is stored in the data bank as indicated by the Department of Forensic Science DNA data bank sample tracking system, no additional sample shall be taken. No civil liability shall attach to any person authorized to take saliva or tissue as provided herein as a result of the act of taking saliva or tissue from any person submitting thereto, provided the saliva or tissue was taken according to recognized medical procedures. However, no person shall be relieved from liability for negligence in the taking of any saliva or tissue sample.
2002, cc. 753, 773; 2003, c. 150; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2022, cc. 41, 42.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.4. Procedures for conducting DNA analysis of blood, saliva or tissue sample

Whether or not the results of an analysis are to be included in the data bank, the Department shall conduct the DNA analysis in accordance with procedures adopted by the Department to determine identification characteristics specific to the individual whose sample is being analyzed. The Director or his designated representative shall complete and maintain on file a form indicating the name of the person whose sample is to be analyzed, the date and by whom the blood, saliva or tissue sample was received and examined, and a statement that the seal on the tube or envelope containing the sample had not been broken or otherwise tampered with. The remainder of a blood, saliva or tissue sample submitted for analysis and inclusion in the data bank pursuant to § 19.2-310.2 or 19.2-310.2:1 may be divided, labeled as provided for the original sample, and securely stored by the Department in accordance with specific procedures adopted by regulation of the Department to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the samples. All or part of the remainder of that sample may be used only (i) to create a statistical data base provided no identifying information on the individual whose sample is being analyzed is included or (ii) for retesting by the Department to validate or update the original analysis.
A report of the results of a DNA analysis conducted by the Department as authorized, including the profile and identifying information, shall be made and maintained at the Department. A certificate and the results of the analysis shall be admissible in any court as evidence of the facts therein stated. Except as specifically provided in this section and § 19.2-310.5, the results of the analysis shall be securely stored and shall remain confidential.
1990, c. 669; 1998, c. 280; 2002, cc. 753, 773; 2003, c. 150; 2005, cc. 868, 881.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.5. DNA data bank

A. It shall be the duty of the Department to receive samples of human biological evidence and to analyze, classify, and file the results of DNA identification characteristics profiles of samples of human biological evidence submitted pursuant to § 19.2-310.2 or 19.2-310.2:1 and to make such information available as provided in this section. The results of an analysis and comparison of evidence submitted to the Department pursuant to § 9.1-1101 to the identification characteristics of human biological evidence so analyzed, classified, and filed shall be made available directly to duly authorized members of federal, state, and local law-enforcement agencies or private police departments that have been designated as criminal justice agencies by the Department of Criminal Justice Services as defined by § 9.1-101, attorneys for the Commonwealth or attorneys for the United States Department of Justice, or the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner upon request made in furtherance of an official investigation or prosecution of any criminal offense, or to an accused or his attorney pursuant to § 9.1-1104. The Department shall confirm whether or not there is a DNA profile on file for a specific individual if a federal, state or local law-enforcement officer requests that information in furtherance of an official investigation of any criminal offense. The name of the requestor and the purpose for which the information is requested shall be maintained on file with the Department.
B. The Department shall adopt regulations governing (i) the methods of obtaining information from the data bank in accordance with this section and (ii) procedures for verification of the identity and authority of the requestor. The Department shall specify the positions in that agency which require regular access to the data bank and samples submitted as a necessary function of the job.
C. The Department shall create a separate statistical data base comprised of DNA profiles of samples of human biological evidence of persons whose identity is unknown. Nothing in this section or § 19.2-310.6 shall prohibit the Department from sharing or otherwise disseminating the information in the statistical data base with law-enforcement or criminal justice agencies within or without the Commonwealth.
D. The Department may charge a reasonable fee to search and provide a comparative analysis of DNA profiles in the data bank to any authorized law-enforcement agency outside of the Commonwealth.
1990, c. 669; 1998, c. 280; 2000, c. 284; 2002, cc. 753, 773; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2010, c. 502; 2011, cc. 66, 171, 638.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.6. Unauthorized uses of DNA data bank; forensic samples; penalties

Any person who, without authority, disseminates information contained in the data bank shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor. Any person who disseminates, receives, or otherwise uses or attempts to so use information in the data bank, knowing that such dissemination, receipt, or use is for a purpose other than as authorized by law, shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Except as authorized by law, any person who, for purposes of having DNA analysis performed, obtains or attempts to obtain any sample submitted to the Department of Forensic Science for analysis shall be guilty of a Class 5 felony.
1990, c. 669; 2005, cc. 868, 881.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.7. (For contingent expiration date, see Acts 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 524 and 542) Expungement when DNA taken for a conviction

A person whose DNA profile has been included in the data bank pursuant to § 19.2-310.2 may request expungement on the grounds that the conviction on which the authority for including his DNA profile was based has been reversed and the case dismissed. Provided that the person's DNA profile is not otherwise required to be included in the data bank pursuant to § 9.1-903, 16.1-299.1, 19.2-310.2, or 19.2-310.2:1, the Department of Forensic Science shall purge all records and identifiable information in the data bank pertaining to the person and destroy all samples from the person upon receipt of (i) a written request for expungement pursuant to this section and (ii) a certified copy of the court order reversing and dismissing the conviction.
1990, c. 669; 2002, cc. 753, 773; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2015, cc. 209, 437.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-310.7. (For contingent effective date, see Acts 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 524 and 542) Expungement when DNA taken for a conviction

A person whose DNA profile has been included in the data bank pursuant to § 19.2-310.2 may request expungement on the grounds that the conviction on which the authority for including his DNA profile was based has been reversed and the case dismissed. Provided that the person's DNA profile is not otherwise required to be included in the data bank pursuant to § 9.1-903, 16.1-299.1, 19.2-310.2, or 19.2-310.2:1, the Department of Forensic Science shall purge all records and identifiable information in the data bank pertaining to the person and destroy all samples from the person upon receipt of (i) a written request for expungement pursuant to this section and (ii) a certified copy of the court order reversing and dismissing the conviction.
1990, c. 669; 2002, cc. 753, 773; 2005, cc. 868, 881; 2015, cc. 209, 437.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-313. Eligibility for release

Any person committed under the provisions of § 19.2-311 shall be eligible for release at the discretion of the Parole Board upon certification by the Director of the Department of Corrections that the person has successfully completed the program established pursuant to § 53.1-63 and a determination that he has demonstrated that such release is compatible with the interests of society and of such person and his successful rehabilitation to that extent. The Department and Parole Board shall make continuous evaluation of his progress to determine his readiness for release. All such persons, in any event, shall be released after four years' confinement. Any person committed under § 19.2-311 who was convicted of a misdemeanor and is determined to be unsuitable for the program established pursuant to § 53.1-63 shall be released after one year of confinement or the maximum confinement for the misdemeanor whichever is less.
Code 1950, § 19.1-295.3; 1966, c. 579; 1975, cc. 495, 571; 2000, cc. 668, 690.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-314. Supervision of persons released

Every person released under § 19.2-313 shall receive intensive parole supervision for a period of at least one and one-half years and may have parole supervision continued for a longer period, if the Parole Board deems it advisable.
Code 1950, § 19.1-295.4; 1966, c. 579; 1975, c. 495; 2000, cc. 668, 690.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-315. Compliance with terms and conditions of parole; time on parole not counted as part of commitment period

Every person on parole under § 19.2-314 shall comply with such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Board according to § 53.1-157 and shall be subject to the penalties imposed by law for a violation of such terms and conditions. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Code, if parole is revoked as a result of any such violation, such person may be returned to the institution established pursuant to § 53.1-63 upon the direction of the Parole Board with the concurrence of the Department of Corrections, provided such person has not been convicted since his release on parole of an offense constituting a felony under the laws of the Commonwealth. Time on parole shall not be counted as part of the four-year period of commitment under this section. In addition, such person may be brought before the sentencing court for imposition of all or part of the suspended sentence.
Code 1950, § 19.1-295.5; 1966, c. 579; 1975, c. 495; 1984, c. 33; 2000, cc. 668, 690.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 18 - Sentence; Judgment; Execution of Sentence › § 19.2-316. Evaluation and report prior to determining punishment

Following conviction and prior to sentencing, the court shall order such defendant committed to the Department of Corrections for a period not to exceed 60 days from the date of referral for evaluation and diagnosis by the Department to determine the person's potential for rehabilitation through confinement and treatment in the facilities and programs established pursuant to § 53.1-63. The evaluation and diagnosis shall include a complete physical and mental examination of the defendant and may be conducted by the Department of Corrections at any state or local facility, probation and parole office, or other location deemed appropriate by the Department. The Department of Corrections shall conduct the evaluation and diagnosis and shall review all aspects of the case within 60 days from the date of conviction or revocation of ordinary probation and shall recommend that the defendant be committed to the facility established pursuant to § 53.1-63 upon finding that (i) such defendant is physically and emotionally suitable for the program, (ii) such commitment is in the best interest of the Commonwealth and the defendant, and (iii) facilities are available for confinement of the defendant.
If the Director of the Department of Corrections determines such person should be confined in a facility other than one established pursuant to § 53.1-63, a written report giving the reasons for such decision shall be submitted to the sentencing court. The court shall not be bound by such written report in the matter of determining punishment. Additionally, the person may be committed or transferred to a state hospital operated by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services or other mental health hospital, as provided by law, during such 60-day period.
Code 1950, § 19.1-295.6; 1966, c. 579; 1974, cc. 44, 1975, c. 495; 1990, c. 701; 2000, cc. 668, 690; 2012, cc. 476, 507.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-317. When writ of error lies in criminal case for accused; when for Commonwealth; when for county, city or town

A. A writ of error shall lie in a criminal case to the judgment of a circuit court or the judge thereof, from the Court of Appeals as provided in § 17.1-406. It shall lie in any such case for the accused and if the case is for the violation of any law relating to the state revenue, it shall lie also for the Commonwealth.
B. A writ of error shall also lie for any county, city or town from the Supreme Court to the judgment of any circuit court declaring an ordinance of such county, city or town to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, except when the violation of any such ordinance is made a misdemeanor by state statute.
C. A writ of error shall also lie for the Commonwealth from the Supreme Court to a judgment of the Court of Appeals in a criminal case, except where the decision of the Court of Appeals is made final under § 17.1-410 or § 19.2-408.
Code 1950, § 19.1-282; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1984, c. 703; 1997, c. 358.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-318. Appeal on writ of error to judgment for contempt

From a judgment for any civil contempt of court an appeal may be taken to the Court of Appeals. A writ of error shall lie from the Court of Appeals to a judgment for criminal contempt of court. This section shall also be construed to authorize an appeal from or writ of error to a judgment of a circuit court rendered on appeal from a judgment of a district court for civil or criminal contempt.
Code 1950, § 19.1-283; 1960, c. 366; 1968, c. 639; 1975, c. 495; 1979, c. 649; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-319. When execution of sentence to be suspended; bail; appeal from denial

If a person sentenced by a circuit court to confinement in the state correctional facility indicates an intention to apply for a writ of error, the circuit court shall postpone the execution of such sentence for such time as it may deem proper.
In any other criminal case wherein judgment is given by any court to which a writ of error lies, and in any case of judgment for any civil or criminal contempt, from which an appeal may be taken or to which a writ of error lies, the court giving such judgment may postpone the execution thereof for such time and on such terms as it deems proper.
In any case after conviction if the sentence, or the execution thereof, is suspended in accordance with this section, or for any other cause, the court, or the judge thereof, may, and in any case of a misdemeanor shall, set bail in such penalty and for appearance at such time as the nature of the case may require; provided that, if the conviction was for a violent felony as defined in § 19.2-297.1 and the defendant was sentenced to serve a period of incarceration not subject to suspension, then the court shall presume, subject to rebuttal, that no condition or combination of conditions of bail will reasonably assure the appearance of the convicted person or the safety of the public.
In any case in which the court denies bail, the reason for such denial shall be stated on the record of the case. A writ of error from the Court of Appeals shall lie to any such judgment refusing bail or requiring excessive bail. Upon review by the Court of Appeals, if the decision by the trial court to deny bail is overruled, the Court of Appeals shall either set bail or remand the matter to circuit court for such further action regarding bail as the Court of Appeals directs.
Code 1950, § 19.1-281; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1979, c. 649; 1984, c. 703; 1987, c. 175; 1988, c. 524; 1999, c. 821; 2008, cc. 126, 146; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 344, 345.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-320. Petitioner for writ of error to comply with Rules of Court

Any party for whom a writ of error lies may apply therefor by complying with the provisions of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia relative to the appeal of criminal cases to the Court of Appeals, or where an appeal is taken to the Supreme Court, with the Rules of the Supreme Court relative to appeal of criminal cases to the Supreme Court.
Code 1950, § 19.1-284; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-321. With whom petition for writ of error filed

A. The petition to the Court of Appeals shall be filed with the Clerk of the Court in the manner and within the time provided by law.
B. The petition in a case wherein a writ of error lies from the Supreme Court shall be filed with the Clerk of that Court in the manner and within the time provided by law.
Code 1950, § 19.1-285; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1976, c. 615; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-322.1. Suspension of execution of judgment on appeal

Execution of a judgment from which an appeal to the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court is sought may be suspended during an appeal provided the appeal is timely prosecuted.
1984, c. 703; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 489.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-323. Denial by judge or justice no bar to allowance by Court

The denial of a writ of error by a judge or justice of an appellate court, in the vacation of that court, shall not prevent the allowance of the writ by the Court, if by it deemed proper, on presentation of the petition to that Court at its next term.
Code 1950, § 19.1-287; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1976, c. 615; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-324. Decision of appellate court

The court from which a writ of error lies shall affirm the judgment, if there be no error therein, and reverse the same in whole or in part, if erroneous, and enter such judgment as the court whose error is sought to be corrected ought to have entered; or remand the cause and direct a new trial; affirming in those cases where the voices on both sides are equal.
Code 1950, § 19.1-288; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-324.1. Erroneously admitted evidence; appeal

In appeals to the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court, when a challenge to a conviction rests on a claim that the evidence was insufficient because the trial court improperly admitted evidence, the reviewing court shall consider all evidence admitted at trial to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to sustain the conviction. If the reviewing court determines that evidence was erroneously admitted and that such error was not harmless, the case shall be remanded for a new trial if the Commonwealth elects to have a new trial.
2013, c. 675.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-325. Provisions which apply to criminal as well as civil cases; when plaintiff in error unable to pay printing costs

Sections 8.01-675.1, 8.01-675.2, 8.01-675.3, 8.01-684 and 17.1-328 shall apply as well to criminal cases as to civil cases. In a felony case in the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court, if the plaintiff in error files with the Clerk of the Court an affidavit that he is unable to pay or secure to be paid the costs of printing the record in the case, together with a certificate of the judge of the trial court to the effect that he has investigated the matter and is of opinion that the plaintiff in error is unable to pay, or secure to be paid, such costs, the printing shall be done as if the costs had been paid and the clerk shall not be required to account for and pay the same into the state treasury. However, if the costs are not paid or secured to be paid and upon the hearing of the case the judgment of the court below is wholly affirmed by the Court of Appeals and no appeal granted by the Supreme Court, or wholly affirmed by the Supreme Court where appeal is granted, the Court in affirming the judgment shall also give judgment in behalf of the Commonwealth against the plaintiff in error for the amount of the costs to be taxed by its clerk.
Code 1950, § 19.1-289; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-326. Payment of expenses of appeals of indigent defendants

In any felony or misdemeanor case wherein the judge of the circuit court, from the affidavit of the defendant or any other evidence certifies that the defendant is financially unable to pay his attorneys' fees, costs and expenses incident to an appeal, the court to which an appeal is taken shall order the payment of such attorneys' fees in an amount not less than $300, costs or necessary expenses of such attorneys in an amount deemed reasonable by the court, by the Commonwealth out of the appropriation for criminal charges. If the conviction is upheld on appeal, the attorney's fees, costs and necessary expenses of such attorney paid by the Commonwealth under the provisions hereof shall be assessed against the defendant.
Code 1950, § 17-30.2; 1962, c. 419; 1964, c. 651; 1975, c. 495; 1980, c. 626; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19 - Exceptions and Writs of Error › § 19.2-327. How judgment of appellate court certified and entered

The judgment of the Court of Appeals or of the Supreme Court shall be certified to the court to whose judgment the writ of error was allowed. The court or the clerk thereof shall cause the same to be entered on its order book as its own judgment.
Code 1950, § 19.1-290; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1984, c. 703.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.2 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence › § 19.2-327.2. Issuance of writ of actual innocence based on biological evidence

Notwithstanding any other provision of law or rule of court, upon a petition of a person who was convicted of a felony or who was adjudicated delinquent by a circuit court of an offense that would be a felony if committed by an adult, the Supreme Court shall have the authority to issue writs of actual innocence under this chapter. The writ shall lie to the circuit court that entered the felony conviction or adjudication of delinquency and that court shall have the authority to conduct hearings, as provided for in § 19.2-327.5, on such a petition as directed by order from the Supreme Court.
2001, cc. 873, 874; 2009, cc. 139, 320; 2013, c. 170; 2020, cc. 993, 994.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.2 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence › § 19.2-327.2:1. Petition for writ of actual innocence joined by Attorney General; release of prisoner; bond hearing

The Attorney General may join in a petition for a writ of actual innocence made pursuant to § 19.2-327.2. When such petition is so joined, the petitioner may file a copy of the petition and attachments thereto and the Attorney General's answer with the circuit court that entered the felony conviction or adjudication of delinquency and move the court for a hearing to consider release of the person on bail pursuant to Chapter 9 (§ 19.2-119 et seq.). Upon hearing and for good cause shown, the court may order the person released from custody subject to the terms and conditions of bail so established, pending a ruling by the Supreme Court on the writ under § 19.2-327.5.
2015, c. 66; 2020, cc. 993, 994.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.2 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence › § 19.2-327.4. Determination by the Supreme Court for findings of fact by the circuit court

If the Supreme Court determines from the petition, from any hearing on the petition, from a review of the records of the case, including the record of any hearing on a motion to test evidence pursuant to § 9.1-1104, or from any response from the Attorney General that a resolution of the case requires further development of the facts under this chapter, the court may order the circuit court to conduct a hearing within 90 days after the order has been issued to certify findings of fact with respect to such issues as the Supreme Court shall direct. The record and certified findings of fact of the circuit court shall be filed in the Supreme Court within 30 days after the hearing is concluded. The petitioner or his attorney of record, the attorney for the Commonwealth and the Attorney General shall be served a copy of the order stating the specific purpose and evidence for which the hearing has been ordered.
2001, cc. 873, 874; 2005, cc. 868, 881.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.2 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence › § 19.2-327.5. Relief under writ

Upon consideration of the petition, the response by the Commonwealth, previous records of the case, the record of any hearing held under this chapter and the record of any hearings held pursuant to § 19.2-327.1, and if applicable, any findings certified from the circuit court pursuant to § 19.2-327.4, the Supreme Court shall either dismiss the petition for failure to state a claim or assert grounds upon which relief shall be granted; or upon a hearing the Court shall (i) dismiss the petition for failure to establish allegations sufficient to justify the issuance of the writ or (ii) only upon a finding by a preponderance of the evidence that the petitioner has proven all of the allegations contained in clauses (iv) through (viii) of subsection A of § 19.2-327.3, and upon a finding that no rational trier of fact would have found proof of guilt or delinquency beyond a reasonable doubt, grant the writ, and vacate the conviction or adjudication of delinquency, or in the event that the Court finds that no rational trier of fact would have found sufficient evidence beyond a reasonable doubt as to one or more elements of the offense for which the petitioner was convicted or adjudicated delinquent, but the Court finds that there remains in the original trial record evidence sufficient to find the petitioner guilty or delinquent beyond a reasonable doubt of a lesser included offense, the Court shall modify the conviction or adjudication of delinquency accordingly and remand the case to the circuit court for resentencing. The burden of proof in a proceeding brought pursuant to this chapter shall be upon the convicted or delinquent person seeking relief. If a writ vacating a conviction or adjudication of delinquency is granted, the Court shall forward a copy of the writ to the circuit court, where an order of expungement shall be immediately granted.
2001, cc. 873, 874; 2007, cc. 465, 824, 883, 905; 2009, cc. 139, 320; 2013, cc. 170, 180; 2020, cc. 993, 994.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.2 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence › § 19.2-327.6. Claims of relief

An action under this chapter or the performance of any attorney representing the petitioner under this chapter shall not form the basis for relief in any habeas corpus or appellate proceeding. Nothing in this chapter shall create any cause of action for damages against the Commonwealth or any of its political subdivisions or any officers, employees or agents of the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions.
2001, cc. 873, 874.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.3 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence Based on Nonbiological Evidence › § 19.2-327.10. Issuance of writ of actual innocence based on nonbiological evidence

Notwithstanding any other provision of law or rule of court, upon a petition of a person who was convicted of a felony, or the petition of a person who was adjudicated delinquent by a circuit court of an offense that would be a felony if committed by an adult, the Court of Appeals shall have the authority to issue writs of actual innocence under this chapter. The writ shall lie to the circuit court that entered the conviction or the adjudication of delinquency and that court shall have the authority to conduct hearings, as provided for in this chapter, on such a petition as directed by order from the Court of Appeals. In accordance with §§ 17.1-411 and 19.2-317, either party may appeal a final decision of the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court of Virginia. Upon an appeal from the Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Virginia shall have the authority to issue writs in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
2004, c. 1024; 2013, c. 170; 2020, cc. 993, 994.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.3 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence Based on Nonbiological Evidence › § 19.2-327.10:1. Petition for writ of actual innocence joined by Attorney General; release of prisoner; bond hearing

The Attorney General may join in a petition for a writ of actual innocence made pursuant to § 19.2-327.10 after providing written notice of such intent to the local attorney for the Commonwealth in the jurisdiction of conviction or adjudication of delinquency. When such petition is so joined, the petitioner may file a copy of the petition and attachments thereto and the Attorney General's answer with the circuit court that entered the felony conviction or adjudication of delinquency and move the court for a hearing to consider release of the person on bail pursuant to Chapter 9 (§ 19.2-119 et seq.). Upon hearing and for good cause shown, the court may order the person released from custody subject to the terms and conditions of bail so established, pending a ruling by the Court of Appeals on the writ under § 19.2-327.13.
2015, c. 66; 2020, cc. 993, 994; 2023, c. 719.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.3 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence Based on Nonbiological Evidence › § 19.2-327.12. Determination by Court of Appeals for findings of fact by the circuit court

If the Court of Appeals determines from the petition, from any hearing on the petition, from a review of the records of the case, or from any response from the Attorney General that a resolution of the case requires further development of the facts, the court may order the circuit court in which the order of conviction or the adjudication of delinquency was originally entered to conduct a hearing within 90 days after the order has been issued to certify findings of fact with respect to such issues as the Court of Appeals shall direct. The record and certified findings of fact of the circuit court shall be filed in the Court of Appeals within 30 days after the hearing is concluded. The petitioner or his attorney of record, the attorney for the Commonwealth and the Attorney General shall be served a copy of the order stating the specific purpose and evidence for which the hearing has been ordered.
2004, c. 1024; 2013, c. 170.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.3 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence Based on Nonbiological Evidence › § 19.2-327.13. Relief under writ

Upon consideration of the petition, the response by the Commonwealth, previous records of the case, the record of any hearing held under this chapter, and, if applicable, any findings certified from the circuit court pursuant to an order issued under this chapter, the Court of Appeals, if it has not already summarily dismissed the petition, shall either dismiss the petition for failure to state a claim or assert grounds upon which relief shall be granted, or the Court shall (i) dismiss the petition for failure to establish previously unknown, unavailable, or untested evidence sufficient to justify the issuance of the writ, or (ii) only upon a finding that the petitioner has proven by a preponderance of the evidence all of the allegations contained in clauses (iv) through (viii) of subsection A of § 19.2-327.11, and upon a finding that no rational trier of fact would have found proof of guilt or delinquency beyond a reasonable doubt, grant the writ, and vacate the conviction or finding of delinquency, or in the event that the Court finds that no rational trier of fact would have found sufficient evidence beyond a reasonable doubt as to one or more elements of the offense for which the petitioner was convicted or adjudicated delinquent, but the Court finds that there remains in the original trial record evidence sufficient to find the petitioner guilty or delinquent beyond a reasonable doubt of a lesser included offense, the Court shall modify the order of conviction or delinquency accordingly and remand the case to the circuit court that entered the conviction or adjudication of delinquency for resentencing. The burden of proof in a proceeding brought pursuant to this chapter shall be upon the convicted or delinquent person seeking relief. If a writ vacating a conviction or adjudication of delinquency is granted, and no appeal is made to the Supreme Court, or the Supreme Court denies the Commonwealth's petition for appeal or upholds the decision of the Court of Appeals to grant the writ, the Court of Appeals shall forward a copy of the writ to the circuit court, where an order of expungement shall be immediately granted.
2004, c. 1024; 2007, cc. 465, 824, 883, 905; 2013, cc. 170, 180; 2020, cc. 993, 994.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.3 - Issuance of Writ of Actual Innocence Based on Nonbiological Evidence › § 19.2-327.14. Claims of relief

An action under this chapter or the actions of any attorney representing the petitioner under this chapter shall not form the basis for relief in any habeas corpus proceeding. Nothing in this chapter shall create any cause of action for damages against the Commonwealth or any of its political subdivisions.
2004, c. 1024.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.4 - Issuance of Writ of Vacatur for Victims of Commercial Sex Trafficking › § 19.2-327.15. Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Qualifying offense" means a conviction or adjudication of delinquency for any violation of § 18.2-346 or 18.2-347.
"Victim of sex trafficking" means any person convicted or adjudicated delinquent of a qualifying offense in the Commonwealth who committed such offense as a direct result of being solicited, invited, recruited, encouraged, forced, intimidated, or deceived by another to engage in acts of prostitution or unlawful sexual intercourse for money or its equivalent, as described in subsection A of § 18.2-346, regardless of whether any other person has been charged or convicted of an offense related to the sex trafficking of such person.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 543.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.4 - Issuance of Writ of Vacatur for Victims of Commercial Sex Trafficking › § 19.2-327.16. Issuance of writ of vacatur for victims of commercial sex trafficking

A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law or rule of court, upon a petition of a person who was convicted or adjudicated delinquent of a qualifying offense, the circuit court of the county or city in which the conviction or adjudication of delinquency was entered shall have the authority to issue writs of vacatur under this chapter.
B. The Rules of Supreme Court of Virginia governing practice and procedures in civil actions shall be applicable to proceedings under this chapter.
C. The circuit court shall have the authority to conduct hearings on petitions for vacatur.
D. Any party aggrieved by the decision of the circuit court may appeal the decision to the Supreme Court of Virginia.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 543.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.4 - Issuance of Writ of Vacatur for Victims of Commercial Sex Trafficking › § 19.2-327.18. Hearing on petition for vacatur

A. If the attorney for the Commonwealth of the county or city in which the petition is filed (i) gives written notice to the court that he does not object to the petition and (ii) stipulates in such written notice that the petitioner was convicted or adjudicated delinquent of a qualifying offense and that the petitioner committed the qualifying offense as a direct result of being a victim of sex trafficking, the circuit court may grant the writ and vacate the qualifying offense without conducting a hearing.
B. If the attorney for the Commonwealth of the county or city in which the petition is filed objects to the petition or does not file an answer, the court shall conduct a hearing on the petition after reasonable notice has been provided to both the petitioner and the attorney for the Commonwealth. The attorney for the Commonwealth shall make reasonable efforts to notify any victim, as defined in § 19.2-11.01, of any qualifying offense of such hearing. The circuit court shall not be required to conduct a hearing if it has previously dismissed a petition for vacatur from the same petitioner for the same qualifying offense.
C. Upon finding that the petitioner has by a preponderance of the evidence proven the elements contained in subsection A of § 19.2-327.17, the circuit court shall grant the writ and vacate the qualifying offense. If the petitioner fails to prove any of these elements, the court shall dismiss the petition.
D. The court may grant the writ and vacate the qualifying offense regardless of whether any person other than the petitioner has been charged or convicted of an offense related to the petitioner being a victim of sex trafficking.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 543.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.4 - Issuance of Writ of Vacatur for Victims of Commercial Sex Trafficking › § 19.2-327.19. Relief under writ of vacatur

A. Upon granting a writ of vacatur pursuant to subsection C of § 19.2-327.18, the circuit court shall provide the petitioner with a copy of the writ, and such copy shall be sufficient proof that the person named in the writ is no longer under any disability, disqualification, or other adverse consequence resulting from the vacated conviction or adjudication of delinquency.
B. If a writ of vacatur is granted, and no appeal is made to the Supreme Court, or the Supreme Court refuses or denies the Commonwealth's petition for appeal or upholds the decision of the circuit court, an order of expungement for the qualifying offense shall be entered by the circuit court. Upon entry of the order of expungement, the clerk of court shall cause a copy of the writ of vacatur, the order of expungement, and the complete set of petitioner's fingerprints to be forwarded to the Department of State Police, which shall expunge the qualifying offense.
C. The writ to vacate the qualifying offense shall not be expunged pursuant to subsection B and shall be maintained by the circuit court. Access to the writ may be provided only upon court order. Any person seeking access to the writ may file a written motion setting forth why such access is needed. The court shall issue an order to disclose the writ upon the written motion of the petitioner named in the writ. The court may issue an order to disclose the writ if it finds that such disclosure best serves the interests of justice.
D. Costs shall be as provided in § 17.1-275 but shall not be recoverable against the Commonwealth. A petitioner shall not be required to pay any fees or costs for filing a petition pursuant to this chapter if the petitioner is found to be unable to pay fees or costs pursuant to § 17.1-606. If the circuit court enters a writ of vacatur, the clerk of the court shall refund to the petitioner such costs paid by the petitioner.
E. If the court enters a writ of vacatur, the petitioner shall be entitled to a refund of all fines, costs, forfeitures, and penalties paid in relation to the qualifying offense that was vacated. If the clerk of the court where the conviction was entered is in possession of any records detailing any fines, costs, forfeitures, and penalties paid by the petitioner for a qualifying offense that was vacated, the petitioner shall be entitled to a refund of such amount. If the clerk of the court where the conviction was entered is no longer in possession of any records detailing any fines, costs, forfeitures, and penalties paid by the petitioner for a qualifying offense that was vacated, a refund shall be provided only upon a showing by the petitioner of the amount of fines, costs, forfeitures, and penalties paid.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 543; 2022, c. 408.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 19.2 - Criminal Procedure › Chapter 19.4 - Issuance of Writ of Vacatur for Victims of Commercial Sex Trafficking › § 19.2-327.20. Claims of relief

Except for appeals to the Supreme Court of Virginia as authorized by subsection D of § 19.2-327.16, an action under this chapter or the performance of any attorney representing the petitioner under this chapter shall not form the basis for relief in any habeas corpus or appellate proceeding. Nothing in this chapter shall create any cause of action for damages against the Commonwealth or any of its political subdivisions or any officers, employees, or agents of the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 543.