What does equal protection under the law ensure?

Equal protection under the law ensures that similar cases are treated alike under the law, which is a fundamental principle in many legal systems, especially in the context of the Fourteenth Amendment in the United States Constitution. This principle mandates that individuals in similar situations be treated in the same manner, thus promoting fairness and justice. For instance, if two individuals engage in similar activities or offenses, they should face comparable legal consequences, reflecting the standardized application of the law. This aspect helps prevent discrimination and bias, ensuring that the legal system operates equitably for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the principle of equal protection. Simply stating that all laws apply equally without exception ignores the subtleties of legal interpretation and application that recognize different contexts. Treating different cases based on their outcomes contradicts the idea of equal treatment, as it would mean that similar situations could yield disparate results. Finally, the notion that protection is given only to certain groups undermines the equal protection guarantee, which aims to protect the rights of all individuals under the law, rather than favoring any particular group.