Kizuwanda Walton is a highly respected Estate Planning Attorney with a deep commitment to helping others secure their legacies.

A native of Southern California, born in Los Angeles and raised in the Inland Empire, she earned her undergraduate degree from UCLA and went on to graduate with honors from the University of Miami School of Law, obtaining her Juris Doctor.

During her 18 years as a practicing attorney, Kizuwanda has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. She has been appointed by the court to represent indigent individuals and has provided pro-bono services and legal resources to various community-based organizations. Presently, as the owner and manager of Walton Firm, an Estate Planning and Trust Administration law practice, Kizuwanda continues her dedication to serving her community. She is recognized as a California Bar Certified Legal Specialist in her practice area, showcasing her expertise and commitment to excellence.

Beyond her legal practice, Kizuwanda is currently the President of the Richard T. Fields Bar Association, she is involved in community outreach efforts, and volunteers her time to educate others about the importance of estate planning. She is passionate about empowering others to protect their loved ones and preserve their legacies for future generations.

Mary N. Bermudez, CPA, MST has extensive tax experience related to privately held companies, entrepreneurs and Small Business.   She is a tax partner with GYL, LLP in Ontario, CA.  She is the Founder and Managing Director of Insight Tax, CPAs, which she merged into GYL, LLP in 2022.

Mary graduated from the USC Leventhal School of Accounting in 1995.  Her experience with national accounting firms gave her the insight and skills to address complex tax situations, manage a tax practice and be a role model.  She obtained her Masters in Taxation from Golden Gate University in 2003.

Mary is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs and business owners.  With a strong tax and accounting background, Mary provides her clients expert advice, professionalism, and peace of mind.  She was a tax panel expert for the USC Alumni Association in the fall of 2019.   Mary has been a motivational speaker at USC student events and is always willing to mentor both college and high school students.

Mary is an active member of her community and serves on the Board of Directors of numerous organizations. Mary and her family enjoy USC football games and weekends away in the local mountains.

Karl Leonard Hicks is one of the founding members of The Leonard Financial Group, LLC, and has over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. He began his career in retail accounting and has done financial work in various industries including retail, real estate and the entertainment industry.

Mr. Hicks received his Bachelor’s degree from California Baptist College. He returned to complete his studies and received a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from California Baptist University. In 2004, Mr. Hicks became a Certified Financial Planner™ practitioner, also known as a CFP®, through the authorization of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. In 2019 Mr. Hicks was granted the Accredited Estate Planner® Designation by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils. This designation is awarded only to estate planning professionals who meet specific requirements of education, experience, knowledge, professional reputation, and character He has been quoted in several publication including “The Press Enterprise”, “Wealth Management” and on “CNBC.com".

Mr. Hicks is a native of Riverside and a graduate of the Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Riverside program. Mr. Hicks has served in many capacities in the Inland Empire, including City Committees and various boards and organization. Mr. Hicks has also served as the President of the Financial Planning Association’s Inland Empire Chapter, past Chair of the UCR Citizen’s University Committee (CUC), a past president of the Estate Planning Council of Riverside County and past President of the Mission Inn Foundation.