Negligent manslaughter
British and
American criminal law differentiates between various crimes based on
mens rea (
criminal intent).
Negligent manslaughter is differentiated from other forms of
homicide by the fact that it is associated with a level of
negligent mens rea. While specifics of negligence may vary from one
jurisdiction to another, it is generally defined as failure to exercise a reasonable level of precaution given the circumstances.
Recklessness is defined as a wanton disregard for the dangers of a particular situation. Many safety laws are
strict liability, meaning that a person can be convicted regardless of
mens rea.
Murder is homicide committed knowingly or with full intent.