2006 Code of Virginia § 19.2-327.2 - Issuance of writ of actual innocence

19.2-327.2. Issuance of writ of actual innocence.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law or rule of court, upon a petitionof a person incarcerated who was convicted of a felony upon a plea of notguilty, or for any person, regardless of the plea, sentenced to death, orconvicted of (i) a Class 1 felony, (ii) a Class 2 felony or (iii) any felonyfor which the maximum penalty is imprisonment for life, the Supreme Courtshall have the authority to issue writs of actual innocence under thischapter. The writ shall lie to the circuit court that entered the felonyconviction; and that court shall have the authority to conduct hearings, asprovided for in 19.2-327.5, on such a petition as directed by order fromthe Supreme Court.

(2001, cc. 873, 874.)