DIRECT APPEAL

The first and most direct way to attack errors and omissions in convictions and sentencing is an appeal. A defendant has 30 days to file a notice of appeal from the entry of judgment. Va. Sup. Ct. Rule 5A:6. Once the Court of Appeals issues its decision, a movant has 30 days in which to file a notice of appeal to proceed to the Supreme Court of Virginia. Va. Sup. Cr. Rule 5:14.