(a)      This section applies only to a petition that will affect the right of a candidate to have the candidate's name appear on the ballot in a primary or general election.

      (b)      A registered voter who is a resident of the district or other geographic area in which a candidate is seeking office may file a petition with the circuit court for that district or geographic area to challenge the candidate's residency as provided in § 5-202 of this title.

      (c)      (1)      The petition must be filed:

                  (i)      if the petition involves a challenge to a candidate for an office that is to be contested at an election in the year that there is not a presidential election, no later than 9 weeks before that election; or

                  (ii)      if the petition involves a challenge to a candidate for an office that is to be contested at an election in the year of a presidential election, no later than 11 weeks before that election.

            (2)      Judicial review of any petition that is filed under subsection (b) of this section shall be expedited by the circuit court that hears the cause to the extent necessary in consideration of the deadlines established by law, and in no case, longer than 7 days from the date the petition is filed.