British and Americancriminal 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 negligentmens 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.
