Missouri Revised Statutes Title XXXV. Civil Procedure and Limitations § 517.041. Summons, how served

1. The process in all cases shall be a summons with a copy of the petition of the plaintiff attached, directed to the sheriff or other proper person for service on the defendant. The summons shall command the defendant to appear before the court on a date and time, not less than ten days nor more than sixty days from the date of service of the summons.

2. If process is not timely served, the plaintiff may request further process be issued to any defendant not timely served with the case being continued, or the plaintiff may dismiss as to any such defendant and proceed with the case.