Mary Anne Franks is a prominent American legal scholar, currently serving as a Professor of Law at the University of Miami School of Law. Her work focuses on cyberlaw, intellectual property law, and First Amendment law, with a particular emphasis on the intersection of law, technology, and social justice. Franks' research and writing have been widely published in leading law journals, including the Harvard Law Review and the California Law Review.
Academic Background and Career
Franks received her Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Harvard University and her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Harvard Law School. After law school, she clerked for Judge Carolyn Dineen King of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Franks then worked as a litigation associate at the law firm Moody & Associates in Boston, before joining the faculty at the University of Miami School of Law in 2010. Her academic background and professional experience have equipped her with a unique perspective on the complexities of cyberlaw and its implications for individuals and society.
Research and Scholarship
Franks’ research has explored various topics, including online harassment, revenge porn, and intellectual property law. Her work has been influential in shaping the national conversation on these issues, and she has been cited by courts, legislatures, and media outlets. Franks has also been a vocal advocate for stronger laws and policies to combat online harassment and protect victims’ rights. Her scholarship has been recognized with several awards, including the University of Miami School of Law’s “Professor of the Year” award.
| Publication | Title | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard Law Review | "Revenge Porn and the Limits of Privacy Law" | 2013 |
| California Law Review | "The 'Sexualization' of Online Harassment" | 2015 |
| Columbia Law Review | "The Future of Online Harassment Law" | 2019 |
Public Engagement and Advocacy
Franks is a frequent commentator on issues related to cyberlaw and online harassment in the media, including NPR, The New York Times, and The Guardian. She has also testified before state and federal legislatures on issues related to online harassment and revenge porn. Franks is a founding member of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to combating online harassment and supporting victims’ rights. Her public engagement and advocacy work have helped raise awareness about the importance of addressing online harassment and promoting a safer and more equitable online environment.
Policy Impact
Franks’ research and advocacy have had a significant impact on policy debates and legislative efforts to address online harassment. Her work has informed the development of laws and policies at the state and federal levels, including the FOSTA-SESTA legislation, which aimed to combat online sex trafficking. Franks has also worked with technology companies, such as Facebook and Twitter, to develop more effective policies and practices for addressing online harassment and promoting user safety.
What is the significance of Mary Anne Franks' work on online harassment?
+Franks' work has been instrumental in raising awareness about the issue of online harassment and its impact on individuals and society. Her research has informed policy debates and legislative efforts to address online harassment, and her advocacy has helped promote a safer and more equitable online environment.
What are some of the key challenges in addressing online harassment?
+Some of the key challenges in addressing online harassment include the complexity of the issue, the anonymity of perpetrators, and the lack of effective laws and policies. Additionally, online harassment often intersects with other forms of harassment, such as sexual harassment and racial harassment, making it essential to develop nuanced and interdisciplinary approaches to addressing the issue.
In conclusion, Mary Anne Franks is a leading expert in the field of cyberlaw and online harassment. Her research, scholarship, and advocacy have had a significant impact on policy debates and legislative efforts to address online harassment. As technology continues to evolve and online platforms become increasingly integral to our lives, Franks’ work will remain essential in promoting a safer and more equitable online environment.
