How long will it take if the death penalty in the first instance is not appealed to the second instance?

The time limit for second instance of criminal cases is generally concluded within two months from the date of acceptance. Death penalty cases can be extended for two months with the approval or decision of the provincial court. Special circumstances need to be extended, it shall be reported to the Supreme People's Court for approval.

Legal provisions: Criminal Procedure Law

Article 232 The people's court of second instance shall conclude the case of appeal or protest within two months. For a case that may be sentenced to death or a case with incidental civil action, if one of the circumstances stipulated in Article 156 of this Law occurs, it may be extended for two months with the approval or decision of the higher people's court of a province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the Central Government; Due to special circumstances need to be extended, it shall be submitted to the Supreme People's Court for approval.

The time limit for accepting appeals and protests in the Supreme People's Court shall be decided by the Supreme People's Court.