What phenomenon explains why few cases receive individual treatment in the legal system?

Assembly-line justice is a phenomenon that highlights how many cases are processed in a rapid and routine manner within the legal system, often focusing on efficiency rather than individual treatment. This approach can lead to a lack of personalized attention for each case, as the system prioritizes moving cases through rather than thoroughly examining each one.

In assembly-line justice, resources may be limited, resulting in judges, prosecutors, and public defenders managing high caseloads. This can create a system where cases are often resolved through plea bargains or standard procedures rather than full trials, with the individual circumstances of defendants receiving less consideration. Because of this, the unique aspects of each case and the individuals involved can become obscured, contributing to the perception that justice is served in a mechanical rather than a tailored manner.

This concept is pivotal in understanding how legal processes can often sacrifice individualized evaluations for speed and efficiency, privileging the swift handling of cases over a careful examination of each defendant's circumstances.