Filing for Divorce in September? Why Fall Is a Common Time to Start the Process

Divorce is never an easy decision and choosing when to begin the process can be just as challenging. Family law attorneys in South Carolina and across the country often see a noticeable increase in divorce filings during the fall months, especially in September. Couples may wait until the summer ends before taking legal steps, and this timing is not accidental. If you are thinking about divorce, understanding why fall is a popular time to start can help you feel prepared for what lies ahead.

Why Divorce Filings Rise After Summer

Summer brings a unique mix of family activities, vacations, and attempts to hold things together until children go back to school. Many parents do not want to disrupt the summer months with divorce proceedings. By waiting until September, families can get children settled into new school routines before introducing major changes. For couples without children, summer may still represent a period of distraction filled with travel or family gatherings that push hard conversations aside. Once September arrives and life returns to its regular pace, many couples find themselves ready to act. Finances also play a role. Summer spending on trips, camps, and events can leave couples feeling stretched. Fall often prompts a review of household budgets and long-term planning. Facing another holiday season together can force couples to consider whether staying married is the right decision. For many, September feels like a more natural moment to file because it provides time to move forward before the year ends.

The Emotional Shift That Comes With Fall

Just as January is known for resolutions and fresh starts, fall carries its own sense of renewal. The slower pace after summer, combined with cooler weather in Myrtle Beach and other parts of South Carolina, makes it easier to reflect. Couples who have been delaying decisions may suddenly feel that the time is right. Filing in September offers an opportunity to align personal choices with the rhythm of a new season. For many, this emotional shift provides motivation. After months of postponement, fall can be a time to accept that change is necessary. That acceptance can make the difficult steps of divorce feel more manageable. Families may even view it as a chance to establish new routines before the holidays, rather than carrying unresolved conflict into a stressful time of year.

Practical Considerations When Filing in the Fall

In South Carolina, divorce requires meeting residency rules and understanding whether you will file under fault or no fault grounds. These legal distinctions affect how long your case will take and what evidence is required. Even when spouses agree, there are waiting periods built into the process. For contested divorces involving property division, custody, or support, the timeline can be longer. A helpful resource is the firm’s guide on how long it takes to finalize a divorce in South Carolina, available at https://lawyersatthebeach.com/blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-finalize-a-divorce-in-south-carolina/. Couples filing in September should also consider how the process will overlap with upcoming holidays. If children are involved, planning parenting schedules ahead of time can provide stability. Discussing custody arrangements early in the process helps reduce conflict during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Parents who plan carefully can lessen the emotional burden on children during a sensitive time.

How Timing Affects Families

The timing of a divorce can influence many aspects of a case. Filing in the fall may allow for completion or significant progress before the year ends. This can help both spouses move into the new year with greater clarity. For families, it can mean that children have time to adjust to new schedules before spring. Timing also matters financially. Some couples prefer to separate assets and debts before the new tax year. Others want to establish support arrangements ahead of annual financial planning. Filing in September provides a balance, giving enough time to begin the process without rushing through the holidays.

Fault and No Fault Divorce in South Carolina

One of the first choices couples face is whether to file based on fault or no fault grounds. In a no fault divorce, spouses live separately for at least one year before the divorce is granted. In a fault-based divorce, one spouse must prove specific grounds such as adultery, physical cruelty, or habitual drunkenness. Each option carries different requirements and consequences. For more details, the firm offers a resource on fault versus no fault divorce at https://lawyersatthebeach.com/blog/filing-for-divorce-fault-vs-no-fault-grounds-in-south-carolina/. Understanding these differences is important, as they can affect property division and alimony. An attorney can explain which path is most appropriate for your situation and help you navigate the legal standards.

Custody Decisions and September Filings

When children are involved, custody arrangements become central to any divorce. September filings may help families establish schedules before the holiday season. Parents should think carefully about whether joint or sole custody will serve their children best. Each family has unique needs, and courts focus on what supports the child’s best interests. For additional insight, you can review the firm’s discussion of joint versus sole custody at https://lawyersatthebeach.com/blog/joint-vs-sole-custody-which-is-best-for-your-family/. By filing in the fall, parents can start negotiating schedules, school arrangements, and holiday visits early. This proactive approach often reduces conflict and gives children a smoother transition.

Why Fall May Be the Best Time for You

While no time feels perfect for ending a marriage, fall offers several advantages. The end of summer provides closure on family activities, the start of school brings structure, and the upcoming holidays create motivation to plan ahead. Couples who file in September can address financial and emotional issues with enough time to prepare for the year’s end.

Taking Action With the Support of an Attorney

Divorce law in South Carolina can be complex, and every case is unique. An attorney can guide you through residency requirements, filing options, and strategy for protecting your rights. The attorneys at McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks understand the challenges families face during divorce. They provide thoughtful counsel and practical guidance for each stage of the process. If you are in Myrtle Beach or surrounding communities and considering divorce this fall, now is the time to take the next step. With legal support, you can make informed choices that protect your future.

Taking the Next Step

Divorce is one of the most personal decisions you will ever face. If you are considering filing this September, you are not alone. Many couples find that fall is the right time to begin. The attorneys at McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks are here to help you through every step of the process. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn how our team can support you.