The proceedings in the cases set forth in Section 11-39-1 shall be by complaint, in the name of the state, by the Attorney General or a district attorney, on his own motion or on relation of another, and, in a case to try the right to an office, on the relation of the claimant thereof. The complaint shall be filed in the circuit court of the county of the residence of the defendant; or, in the case of an officer, where he acts as such; or, in case of a corporation or pretended corporation, where its principal office or place of business may be or where it may transact any business and has an agent; or, in case of an alien or corporation acquiring or holding land contrary to law, where any of the land is situated.