Lemma Barkeloo & Phoebe Couzins Professor of Law Susan Frelich Appleton, a nationally known expert in family law and feminist legal theory, recently appeared as a featured guest on the Taboo Trades podcast, hosted by Kim Krawiec, Charles O. Gregory Professor of Law at the University of Virginia School of Law. Joining Appleton on the episode was Albertina Antognini, the James E. Rogers Professor of Law at the University of Arizona. The conversation was co-hosted by UVA Law 3L, Laura Habib.
The episode delves into Antognini and Appleton’s recent article, “Sexual Agreements,” published in the Washington University Law Review. The co-authors explore the legal and social frameworks surrounding agreements in which sex or similar services form part of the bargain, the influence of a marital norm, and the uneven progress law has made in recognizing sex as an ordinary and unexceptional part of life.
“I’m thrilled today to welcome new friend Albertina Antognini and old (by which I mean long-time) friend Susan Appleton,” Krawiec said, introducing the distinguished guests. Appleton’s extensive scholarship spans topics such as reproductive justice, gender and sexualities, and public assistance for families, making her a prominent voice in contemporary legal debates.
Antognini, whose work examines how legal rules shape and define families, shared insights from her research, which challenges seemingly “natural” legal categories and subjects them to critical analysis. Her academic focus aligns seamlessly with Appleton’s expertise, offering listeners a nuanced exploration of how the law regulates intimate and familial relationships.