California legal term
Recklessly in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Recklessly” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the California criminal code.
What does “Recklessly” mean in California criminal law?
“Recklessly” means a person is aware of and consciously disregards a substantial and unjustifiable risk that his or her act will set fire to, burn, or cause to burn a structure, forest land, or property. (Cal. Penal Code § 450)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.