[wideawake]

I'm referring to a comparison of first-degree murder representation, wherein the wealthy can hire the slickest, most experienced lawyer on the planet and avoid the death penalty while some dish-washer gets stuck with a somnabulist, state-provided defense attorney.

One could then argue that there should be no life-without parole sentences, or even custodial sentences at all, because the hyperwealthy will generally be able to avoid the harsher end of sentencing for any crime.

[Rutles4Ever]

One could then argue that there should be no life-without parole sentences, or even custodial sentences at all, because the hyperwealthy will generally be able to avoid the harsher end of sentencing for any crime.

Agreed, that could be argued as well, however, a longer prison sentence doesn't violate the inherent dignity of a human being in the same way killing him does. There's a big difference between being alive and being dead, and that's where the Church (at least) draws the line in its teaching.