Virginia law requires that all aggravated murder indictments returned by a grand jury be promptly filed with the Supreme Court and kept in a central file accessible to the public. Additionally, individuals arrested for a felony must be granted a preliminary hearing unless they waive it in writing, ensuring their right to a fair process before formal charges are filed. These provisions aim to promote transparency and protect defendants' rights in criminal proceedings.
The clerk must immediately file a certified copy of the indictment with the Supreme Court, which maintains a central file accessible to the public.
No, failure to comply with the filing requirements does not invalidate the indictment or affect the validity of a conviction.
Yes, individuals arrested on felony charges are entitled to a preliminary hearing unless they waive it in writing.
No, the law mandates a preliminary hearing unless the accused waives this right in writing.