Justice for Sale: The Price Tag on the American Legal System

"Equal Justice Under Law" is carved into the façade of the United States Supreme Court. It’s a noble promise — one that implies fairness, impartiality, and dignity for all, regardless of wealth or status. But step inside most courtrooms today, and it quickly becomes clear: that promise has a price tag. And only some can afford it.

The legal system, in theory, is blind. In practice, it’s anything but. It sees the tailored suits of corporate attorneys and the unshaven faces of public defender clients. It hears the polished language of high-priced counsel and the overwhelmed silence of those forced to represent themselves. The result is a justice system tilted steeply in favor of those with the money to manipulate it.

The Cost of a Fighting Chance

Imagine being accused of a crime and handed a court-appointed attorney juggling dozens of open cases — many of them just like yours. While you get five rushed minutes of attention, the person across the aisle has a legal team billing $800 an hour, poring over every detail, hiring experts, spinning the narrative. Who do you think walks out free?

This disparity isn’t just criminal — it’s civil too. Tenants evicted without legal representation. Debtors sued by billion-dollar lenders. Parents losing custody because they couldn’t afford to keep fighting. For many, justice isn’t just delayed — it’s denied outright.

Courts as Collections Agencies

In some courtrooms, especially in low-income areas, judges function more like debt collectors than neutral arbiters. Court fees, cash bail, and punitive fines disproportionately impact the poor, creating a revolving door of financial punishment. And if you can’t afford to pay? Jail. Suspension of your driver’s license. Lost jobs. Lost homes. All for the “crime” of being broke.

Two Systems, One Nation

It’s time to admit the truth: we have two legal systems in America. One for the wealthy — full of options, time, and influence. And another for everyone else — crowded, chaotic, underfunded, and unforgiving.

True justice doesn’t hinge on your bank account. It’s not supposed to be won by those who can afford the best story. But until we demand systemic change — from fully funding public defense to limiting the sway of money in civil and criminal courts — “Justice for All” will remain a slogan, not a standard.

Because justice that only exists for those who can pay for it… isn’t justice at all.