Bernard is a nine-year-old orphan adopted as an infant by the De la Vega family, becoming a cherished family mascot. He has a slender build, fair skin, mahogany brown hair, and teal eyes, usually seen in a golden cream yellow long-sleeved shirt and brown pants. As his alter ego "Little Zorro," he dons a black hat, cape, mask, a blue vest, and tall black leather boots.

Lively, quick-witted, and generally happy, Bernard is considered a son by Don Alejandro and a brother by Diego de la Vega. He actively helps on the family farm. Discovering Diego's secret identity as Zorro early on, Bernard adopts the "Little Zorro" persona to assist in fighting tyranny, gathering intelligence through eavesdropping and using unconventional tactics.

Instrumental in Diego's personal life, Bernard acts as an unconventional matchmaker between Diego and Lolita Prideaux. While typically resilient in danger, he shows moments of vulnerability, like profound fear after a life-threatening rescue requiring Zorro's reassurance. Beyond the De la Vegas, he shares a close bond with Lady Barbara, who once considered adopting him before he chose to remain in California. He also has a meaningful friendship with imaginative local flower girl Pepita.

His constant companion is Figaro, the bulldog he cares for. He maintains a romantic interest in Nikita and friendships with peers Manuel, Sergio, and Leona. As a deuteragonist, Bernard features prominently in episodes showcasing his independent problem-solving, such as protecting Nikita's home from thieves.