Which of the following best describes criminal negligence?

Criminal negligence is best described as a negligent act that demonstrates indifference to the consequences of one’s actions. This means that the individual failed to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would exercise in the same situation, showing a disregard for the potential harmful outcomes of their behavior. This form of negligence goes beyond simple carelessness; it reflects a conscious or reckless disregard for the safety and well-being of others.

In the context of the provided choices, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of criminal negligence. A willful act that has no legal consequences does not involve negligence at all and suggests a lack of harmful intent. Describing a minor error without significant impact does not reflect the serious nature of criminal negligence, which can lead to severe consequences. Lastly, a crime committed under duress refers to an individual acting under pressure or coercion, which does not pertain to negligent behavior but to the context of the crime itself. Thus, the description of a negligent act demonstrating indifference to consequences aligns perfectly with the understanding of criminal negligence.