Full Idea
It is proper to justice, as compared with the other virtues, to direct man in his relations with others, because it denotes a kind of equality, as its very name implies; indeed we are wont to say that things are 'adjusted' when they are made equal.
Gist of Idea
Justice directs our relations with others, because it denotes a kind of equality
Source
Thomas Aquinas (Summa Theologicae [1265], II-II Q57 1)
Book Reference
Aquinas,Thomas: 'On Law, Morality and Politics', ed/tr. Baumgarth,W. /Regan R. [Hackett 1988], p.137
A Reaction
Even if you say justice is giving people what they deserve, rather than mere equality, they must still be equal in receiving like for like. Legal justice implies equality before the law (except for monarchs?).