Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maria Estrella Leyva. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Maria Estrella , thanks for joining us today. Is there a lesson you learned in school that’s stuck with you and has meaningfully impacted your journey?

One of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned didn’t come from a textbook—it came from the moment I decided to restart school with three children depending on me. I was standing in my kitchen, surrounded by backpacks, lunchboxes, and the usual chaos of a weekday morning, when I realized that if I wanted to advocate for justice and empower others, I had to first invest in myself.

Returning to school for criminal justice wasn’t just a career move—it was a declaration of purpose. I learned that resilience isn’t loud or dramatic; it’s quiet, persistent, and often unfolds in the margins of everyday life. Balancing coursework with parenting meant studying late into the night, writing papers between soccer practices, and sometimes showing up to class emotionally exhausted but determined.

What stuck with me most was the realization that education is not a solo journey—it’s a ripple effect. My children saw me struggle, adapt, and grow. They learned that ambition doesn’t have an expiration date and that justice begins at home, with integrity and perseverance.

That lesson—of resilience, purpose, and leading by example—has shaped every step of my journey in criminal justice. It’s why I’m committed to building systems that support families, uphold fairness, and never underestimate the strength of someone who chooses to begin again.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Maria Estrella, studying for the exam to become a legal document preparer while starting my master’s degree in public administration, and having a small bussiness Moblie Public Notary ( 520-Xitlalli Services) I have a deep commitment to ethical standards, community empowerment, and accessible justice. My journey into this field hasn’t been linear; it has been driven by purpose, resilience, and a desire to improve systems for the people they serve.

I returned to school while raising three children, determined to pursue a career in criminal justice and public service. This decision was not only about personal growth but also about modeling perseverance and integrity for my family and community. I have always believed that justice should be clear, fair, and accessible, and I have built my career on making that belief a reality.

I provide public administration support, including ethical analysis, policy review, and administrative coordination for government and nonprofit organizations. I also offer academic writing and APA citation consulting, helping students and professionals refine their work with precision and integrity. I assist organizations in streamlining administrative processes, improving ethical compliance, and enhancing public trust.

I take a methodical, detail-oriented approach grounded in real-world experience and ethical standards. I am deeply engaged in Arizona’s public sector landscape, with a passion for empowering underserved communities—especially through organizations like Zion City Church (Santa Cruz Campus). I adapt my leadership and decision-making style to fit the moment—whether it’s participative, rational, or satisficing—always with accountability and empathy.

**What I’m Most Proud Of:**
I am studying to pass the Arizona Legal Document Preparer Program exam while balancing motherhood and full-time studies. I have gained valuable experience from scenario-based learning and ethical discussions that deepen our understanding of public service. I have built a reputation for accuracy, integrity, and compassion in every document, decision, and interaction.

**What I Want You to Know:**
My work is more than a profession; it’s a mission. Whether it’s organizing PTO events, church activities, or coordinating administrative processes, I am guided by a belief in justice, clarity, and human dignity. I want clients and collaborators to feel heard, supported, and confident that their goals are being met with care and precision

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My reputation was built on a foundation of trust, precision, and accessibility. With 520-Xitlalli Services, I’ve created a mobile public notary business that meets people where they are—literally and figuratively. Hopeing to expand sevices with the CLDP licence. I serve clients across Tucson and surrounding areas who need reliable, confidential, and legally sound document with notary services without the hassle of navigating a serach to locate a notary at banks or other palces.

What helped me stand out was my commitment to ethical standards, especially in legal notarizations. I don’t just stamp papers—I guide clients through the process with clarity, patience, and respect. Many of my clients are navigating sensitive situations—family law, immigration, estate planning—and they need someone who understands both the legal requirements and the human side of the work.

I also bring a deep understanding of Arizona’s legal knowledge, thanks to my training in criminal justice and public administration. That knowledge allows me to offer more than just a service—I offer peace of mind. Clients know that when they work with me, their documents will be handled with care, accuracy, and full compliance.

What sets me apart is my flexibility and responsiveness. As a mobile notary, I’ve met clients in hospitals, homes, offices, and even parking lots—because life doesn’t wait, and neither should justice. I’m proud to be a resource for people who need help navigating sensitive docuemnts, especially those in underserved communities.

Ultimately, my reputation grew because I treat every client with dignity, every document with precision, and every interaction as an opportunity to build trust. That’s the heart of 520-Xitlalli Services—and the reason people keep coming back.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been simple but powerful: repeat customers and word of mouth. With 520-Xitlalli Services, I’ve built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and genuine care—qualities that clients remember and share.

Many of my clients come to me during pivotal moments in their lives—finalizing legal documents, handling estate matters, or navigating family transitions. When they experience my attention to detail, ethical standards, and mobile convenience, they not only return for future services but also refer friends, family, and colleagues.

I’ve found that trust is the currency of growth in this industry by consistently delivering accurate, confidential, and timely notarizations. I’ve earned the kind of trust that turns one-time clients into long-term relationships. Word-of-mouth referrals have connected me with people across Tucson and beyond—especially in communities that value accessibility and integrity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://520xitlalli.com
• Facebook: 520-Xitlalli Services