How do economic disparities influence legal outcomes in the justice system, particularly in relation to poverty and social inequality?

Economic disparities can greatly influence legal outcomes in the justice system because people with more money often have better access to legal resources. For instance, wealthier individuals can afford skilled lawyers who can build strong defenses, while those in poverty may rely on public defenders who are often overworked and have limited time for each case. This difference can lead to unequal treatment in court, where the rich might receive lighter sentences or even avoid charges altogether, while the poor face harsher penalties. A concrete example is when two people commit the same crime, but the one with a good lawyer may get a plea deal, while the one without might end up with a long prison sentence. Overall, these economic factors create a justice system that is not entirely fair or equal for everyone.