Anessa Allen Santos
Partner
Education
• University of Oxford, Saïd Business School – Blockchain Strategies and Financial Technology
• University of Dayton School of Law – J.D., Cum Laude
• Wright State University – B.A. in Diplomacy, Summa Cum Laude
Bar Admissions & Affiliations
Florida
U.S. District Courts, Middle and Southern Districts of Florida
Vice Chair, Florida Bar Committee on Technology Law
Second Vice Chair, Florida Bar Computer Law and Technology Committee
Anessa is nationally recognized for her legal innovation in crypto regulation. She has secured a definitive FinCEN administrative ruling on money transmitter obligations and developed proprietary compliance tools, including a token scoring algorithm aligned with the SEC’s investment contract analysis. Her frameworks have guided numerous companies in assessing regulatory risk and aligning digital assets with U.S. securities laws.
Her litigation work includes serving as defense counsel in landmark federal matters involving cryptocurrency and financial crimes. In each, she secured favorable outcomes by leveraging constitutional defenses and strategic advocacy.
In addition to her legal practice, Anessa serves as a Special Magistrate and qualified expert witness in matters involving blockchain technology and digital asset regulation. She is a frequent speaker at national conferences, a contributor to legal and financial publications, and has been featured on Forbes, Daily Flash, and at the National Press Club in Washington DC.
Anessa provides clients with forward-thinking legal counsel across blockchain integration, digital asset structuring, securities compliance, intellectual property protection, and high-stakes white collar defense.
Ethics & Trust
At Cogent Law, integrity defines our practice. We uphold the highest ethical standards, ensuring every client receives honest guidance and steadfast advocacy. With transparency and trust at the core, we handle your case with unwavering commitment and professional care.
Reliability & Professionalism
Clients deserve representation that inspires confidence. Our attorneys combine sharp legal knowledge with consistent reliability, providing clear direction at every step. We are the steady advocates you can depend on, navigating challenges with precision, professionalism, and complete dedication to achieving your goals.
Client-Focused Advocacy
Choosing the right attorney matters. At Cogent Law, we focus on your needs with personalized attention and practical strategies. From resolving complex disputes to guiding important decisions, we work to empower you, protect your interests, and deliver lasting, meaningful results.