The NIU College of Law received statewide recognition thanks to the work of a prominent professor.

Professor Jeffrey Parness was named one of the “Best Law Professors in Illinois” by the Chicago Lawyer magazine. The award did not come as a surprise to some.

“He’s brilliant,” said Kristine Robinson, a third year law student. “He is very dedicated to the students.”

Parness fits the award to a “T,” said LeRoy Pernell, dean of the College of Law.

“Professor Parness is a highly regarded scholar both within Illinois and nationally,” Pernell said. “We think this recognition is very well deserved.”

Winning professors came from a pool of nominations submitted by faculty, staff and students from their respective university.

Parness, who joined the College of Law in 1982, is well known for his policy reform and legal research.

His research was used in a 1994 decision by the California Supreme Court and the precedent set in the case was used in the 2004 trial of Scott Peterson.

“I think you really have to have skills in research and writing in laymen’s terms,” Parness said, giving advice to prospective law professors.

Parness particularly enjoys teaching first year law students, crediting their curiosity and diversity as part of the reason he still enjoys his job.

“I enjoy [teaching first year students] because it is really peoples’ first introduction into law and they’re still real curious,” Parness said. “It’s almost like teaching a new language.”

Pernell believes Parness is an asset to the college, inspiring students and teaching invigorating courses.

“His contributions to the law school are a significant benefit to the entire community,” Pernell said. “I think it is important for students who are thinking of coming to the school to know we have teachers of this quality.”