Valentina Montoya Bayona, Esq.

Smiling woman in black blazer arms crossed

Experience

Valentina earned her Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University College of Law in 2026. During law school, she gained practical legal experience through a variety of internships and clinics that provided her with exposure to both trial and appellate advocacy. Among these experiences, Valentina interned for Judge Bernstein at the Miami-Dade County Children’s Courthouse, where she gained valuable insight into judicial proceedings and the practice of law within the court system.

Valentina also participated in the Appellate Litigation Clinic as a Certified Legal Intern. Through the clinic, she partnered with the Broward County Public Defender’s Office on two appellate matters, conducting legal research and drafting appellate briefs on behalf of clients. She also had the opportunity to present oral arguments before the Public Defender’s appellate litigation team, further strengthening her skills in legal research, persuasive writing, and oral advocacy. Beyond her practical legal experience, Valentina was actively involved in the St. Thomas Law community. She participated in Law Review and Moot Court and served as President of the Colombian American Student Bar Association.

During her final year of law school, Valentina joined Suarez Law as a law clerk, where she worked alongside the firm’s attorneys and continued developing her practical legal skills while completing her legal education. Following her graduation in 2026, Valentina continued her professional career with Suarez Law, bringing to the firm a strong foundation in legal research, writing, advocacy, and client representation.

Education

  • St. Thomas University College of Law
    • Juris Doctor, Cum Laude, 2026
  • Florida International University
    • Bachelor of Arts in international relations with a minor in English, 2021

Honors

Cali Book Awards

  • Legal Research & Writing 2023
  • Appellate Advocacy 2024
  • Florida Civil Practice 2024
  • Criminal Procedure I 2025

Languages

  • English
  • Spanish