Missouri § 115.533 - Procedure after petition filed.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 115.533 — Procedure after petition filed., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 115.533. Procedure after petition filed.
1. Immediately after a petition is filed, the clerk of the circuit court shall issue a summons upon the petition to the contestee, returnable by the day designated by the circuit court to the circuit court. The summons shall be served in any county of the state in the same manner provided for service of process in civil actions. If the contestee cannot be found within two days, the summons shall be served by leaving the summons and a copy of the petition at the residence address shown on the contestee's declaration of candidacy and by posting the summons in a conspicuous place in the office of the clerk of the circuit court.
2. Immediately after the petition is filed, the clerk of the circuit court shall send by certified or registered mail a certified copy of the petition to the officer responsible for issuing the statement announcing the results of the contested election and to each election authority responsible for conducting the election in any area where an alleged irregularity occurred. All officers and election authorities so notified shall immediately suspend all action on the office until the contest has been determined.
3. Not later than four days after the petition is filed, the contestee may file an answer to the petition, specifying reasons why his nomination should not be contested. If the contestee wishes to contest the validity of any votes given to the contestant, he shall set forth in his answer the votes he wishes to contest, and the facts he will prove in support of such contest and shall pray leave to produce his proof.
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(L. 1977 H.B. 101 § 13.015)
Effective 1-01-78
---- end of effective 01 Jan 1978 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 115.533
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 115.533 cover?
Section 115.533 ("Procedure after petition filed.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 115.533?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 115.533" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 115.533 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.