§ 202 Military Candidate Filing Rights
A deployed service member who cannot be present to file candidacy or nomination papers can have an attorney file them using a written power of attorney, provided the power includes the office sought, district number, a statement of qualifications and acceptance, and is filed with the paperwork.
A National Guard member is stationed overseas and wants to run for a city council seat that represents District 5. Because they cannot travel back to file the paperwork, they give a lawyer a signed power of attorney that names District 5, confirms they meet all qualifications, and promises to accept the nomination.
The lawyer uses the power of attorney to submit the candidate's declaration of candidacy to the city clerk. The clerk receives the original signed power of attorney attached to the filing, satisfying the law.
No mathematical formula is specified in the statute.
A deployed soldier wants to run for State Assembly, District 24.
Result: Power of attorney is prepared, signed by the soldier, and filed with the candidate's declaration, allowing the lawyer to complete the filing on the soldier's behalf.
AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.
§ 202 Military Candidate Filing Rights
Last verified: January 10, 2026