Venessa Esperanza Bornost

 Venessa Bornost began her legal journey from an unconventional starting point: criminology studies at Florida State University followed by service as a deputy sheriff with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. She advanced to narcotics detective and served on the Pinellas County SWAT team, gaining deep, practical insight into drug enforcement and criminal investigations. While continuing to work in law enforcement, she earned her J.D. from Nova Southeastern University School of Law and, after passing the bar in 2006, served as a lead prosecutor in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court in Hillsborough County. There she handled a wide range of cases—DUI, misdemeanors, drug offenses, domestic violence, and felonies—acquiring extensive trial and courtroom experience. In 2008 she opened Venessa Bornost, P.A. to provide vigorous criminal defense informed by her unique perspective as both a former officer and prosecutor. She represents clients throughout the Tampa Bay area, committed to honest, effective, and cost-conscious advocacy while valuing strong attorney-client relationships.