Missouri § 40.273 - Desertion, defined — punishment by court-martial.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 40.273 — Desertion, defined — punishment by court-martial., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 40.273. Desertion, defined — punishment by court-martial.
1. Any member of the state military forces who:
(1) Without authority goes or remains absent from the member's unit, organization, or place of duty with intent to remain away therefrom permanently;
(2) Quits his unit, organization or place of duty with intent to avoid hazardous duty or to shirk important service; or
(3) Without being regularly separated from one of the state military forces enlists or accepts an appointment in the same or another one of the state military forces, or in one of the Armed Forces of the United States, without fully disclosing the fact
2. Any commissioned officer of the state military forces who, after tender of resignation and before notice of its acceptance, quits his post or proper duties without leave and with intent to remain away therefrom permanently is guilty of desertion.
3. Any person found guilty of desertion or attempt to desert shall be punished as a court-martial may direct.
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(L. 1984 H.B. 1035 § 86)
---- end of effective 28 Aug 1984 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 40.273
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 40.273 cover?
Section 40.273 ("Desertion, defined — punishment by court-martial.") 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 § 40.273?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 40.273" (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 § 40.273 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.