When the notice of contest questions only which of the parties to the contest received the highest number of votes legally cast at the election for the office, the contestee need not file an answer. For all other election contests or in any contest in which the contestee desires to offer testimony on points not specified in the contestant’s notice, the contestee shall file and serve on the contestant an answer to the notice of contest. The answer shall so far as practicable, conform to the rules for pleading in civil actions. Service of the answer shall be made within five days after service of contestant’s notice upon the contestee. Service of the answer shall be made in the same manner as provided for service of an answer in civil actions or in such manner as the court may by order direct.