Criminal Law and PolicyEuropean Criminal Justice and Data ProtectionCriminal Justice and Corrections Analysis

Maximilián Kiko, Daniel Richter

2026.1.19Pravny Obzor

DOI: 10.31577/pravnyobzor.2026.6.05

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of gross negligence in criminal law from the perspective of legal doctrine, case law, and proposed legislative reforms. Its primary aim is to assess whether gross negligence constitutes a distinct form of culpability or merely a more intense expression of conscious or unconscious negligence. The analysis includes doctrinal interpretations from Czech and Slovak legal scholarship, judicial decisions, and the influence of EU law. The article proposes criteria for distinguishing gross negligence from other forms of culpability and evaluates their relevance in light of the ultima ratio principle. The authors conclude that gross negligence does not constitute a new type of culpability, but rather a heightened level of existing negligence. Legislative recognition of this concept may improve legal certainty and predictability in the prosecution of negligent offenses.

Citation format

KIKO, Maximilián; RICHTER, Daniel. Hrubá nedbanlivosť v trestnom práve ako základ budúcej rekodifikácie trestného zákona? Pravny Obzor, 2026, 108(6).