What does "defer" mean in a legal context?

In a legal context, "defer" means to delay or put off a decision, action, or process until a later date. This term is often used in various legal proceedings and situations where a judge or authority may choose to postpone reaching a conclusion on a matter, allowing for additional evidence, deliberation, or circumstances to be considered before making a ruling. By deferring, it provides the necessary time for parties involved to prepare or for other relevant factors to materialize that may influence the outcome. This concept is important in legal settings as it emphasizes the judiciary's commitment to thoroughness and fairness in its deliberations.