(a) Should it be proved to the satisfaction of the trial judge, in cases instituted under this subchapter, that a successful candidate has been guilty of violating the Political Practices Act or any of the laws regulating general, primary, or special elections, the circuit court shall enter the finding as a part of the judgment, irrespective of the determination of the issues in other suits filed under this subchapter or the verdict of the jury in a criminal prosecution.
(b) The judgment to that effect shall operate to deprive the candidate of the nomination, and the vacancy shall be filled in the manner provided by law.