After filing for SSDI myself a couple years back and got denied (big suprise), I started researching disability lawyers. After calling several, I found being a Kaiser member was frowned upon, so much that no one wanted to take my case! I did some more research and I found Berkley Disability and decided to give them a call. I had a consultation with Cliff who made me feel very comfortable and confident in my case! He wasn't scared away by my Kaiser health insurance (for medical records). I had a great feeling after getting off the phone from my consultation, so I decided to hire them! Cliff and staff did an excellent job representing me, they communicated effectively and proactively with me. Filed all paperwork, were accountable to deadlines, easy to get ahold of if I had any questions. Lo and behold, I got my favorable decision! Wouldn't have been able to without their help, professionalism, confidence and their drive in going to bat for me. I've actually recommended them already to those who mention being in the same position with social security. This review is long overdue! Thank you Berkley Disability! read more

I chose Berkley Disability based on previous Yelp reviews, but over the course of a year and a half, had a series of genuinely frustrating experiences leading me to realize that what was being advertised was not the quality of service that I was receiving. Over the course of the time that I was contracted with them, I called with specific questions on several occasions, and with one exception, was NEVER called back. The one time that Mr. Berkley did return my call, he was remarkably rude, dismissive and frankly rather condescending. Shockingly unprofessional. After my case was denied by Social Security, Berkley Disability didn't even bother to inform me: The SSA did, and I had to initiate contact with Berkley Disability just to get the appeals paperwork sent to me. At no point did anybody ever reach out. At no point did anybody discuss any strategy or considerations regarding how to approach my appeal. That is until I decided that I needed to cut ties and find somebody who will advocate for me and my case. I left a message saying that I was unhappy with my representation. This time, I received a call back within minutes. I was told that Mr. Berkley wanted to discuss my poor experience. They were pushy, and so I acquiesced. He was again, rude and quite prickly. He blamed his staff for the lack of quality service, and offered to handle my case personally. I said I was done, but thank you. At that point, he said that he intended to file a fee petition against my settlement, should a ruling be decided in my favor. I was surprised and asked for an accounting of the time they had spent on my case to date and received a list that was grossly padded. They even included the last call with Mr. Berkeley that *they* initiated. They charged for 45 minutes. The actual call length - approximately 20 minutes. Berkley Disability's communication and follow-through is bad and my experience with Mr. Berkley was that he was rude and unprofessional. If you want a company that is proactive and responsive to your needs, I suggest that you look elsewhere. read more

Berkley Disability handled my complicated SSDI case with real skill and care. After years of denials and a messy medical history, Cliff and the team sorted through the details, built a strong argument, and got me approved. They communicated clearly the whole time and never treated me like just another file. Highly recommend if your case isn't straightforward. read more

Incredibly kind, considerate, empathetic, and helpful person! I cannot recommend him enough!

Good communication! They are working hard for me to get my long-term disability. I am hoping to get it soon - it's not their fault it's just the government. The team seems to have a great knowledge of the system. read more

Cliff Berkley & his amazing team at Berkley Disability in southern California, have been by my side dealing with the difficult Social Security Disability Benefits Pension process, for over 4 years. Cliff has integrity, efficiency & tremendous knowledge & compassion, together with his capable team, they have guided me through a very difficult & challenging journey. I am very happy to say that today all the hard work as paid off, as we won the case & I've been awarded by our Judge a fully favorable outcome & will receive an SSI Pension. Cliff never gives up on his clients, no matter what the circumstances are & I fully endorse & recommend Cliff & his capable team to any individual who needs their help, with any aspect of the Social Security Administration process. Karen R Kennedy read more

I messaged Mr. Cliff Berkley around 8:30 p.m. on a Thursday night and received a response from Cliff himself within moments. I asked if we could speak on the phone, and within under five minutes, I was speaking to Cliff himself; not paralegal, not a receptionist or intake coordinator, not an AI Chatbot; just Cliff Berkeley himself. And in one of the most soothing voices I have ever heard Cliff professionally and honestly gave me very sound and helpful advice, clear direction and what to expect ahead with with my SSDI appeal. I had already retained representation, and he knew that. But instead, he took the time to speak to me anyway, to listen to my story, my own battle through Disability, just two years ago, and all the ups and downs that we are going through with my husband's SSDI denial appeal. I cannot speak more highly of cliffs, knowledge, embassy, and grace, all rolled into one heartfelt package. The entire phone call. I sat there and thought, "man I wish I had found you first before the group that we have currently retained law services with." There are a lot of blocks to my husband's case some of which may seem slightly insurmountable. But Cliff encouraged us not to give up. Utilizing both honesty and optimism, he laid out a description of the difficulties of our case, but also included some ideas that may be able to overcome the hurdles. We spoke for ever 30 mins. At the I messaged Mr. Cliff Berkley around 8:30pm on a Thurs night and got a response from Cliff himself within moments. I asked if we could speak on the phone and in under five minutes I was speaking to Cliff himself. sit on the phone for 30 minutes, trying to sell me on his own law firm.) His best advice is to stick it out with the current representation I have or not that I may call him anytime simply to pick his brain, even if I'm not retaining him for services. Cliff describes that he wears two hats, a Disability hat and a human being hat. What's incredible is his ability to wear both hats at the same time. Thank you, Mr. Cliff Berkley. Although you are not the law firm that I initially signed up with, I highly recommend you to anyone and everyone who reads this post. Extremely knowledgeable, understandable, and truly empathic; these are the qualities that perfectly describe Cliff Berkeley. If he is the first person in your search for help with your SSDI case, lucky you; your search is over. read more

Horrendous intake experience for my SSA case. Employees who don't use proper grammar or professional language badgered me with emails constantly and kept trying to get me to call them even though I wanted to keep everything to email until I got the info I needed about whether they would be good for my type of case. They have boilerplate language on emails saying this is not a law office and there are no real lawyers working there. I asked them to clarify, since they acted like they were a law firm. When I found out they weren't real lawyers I told them to stop contacting me and they finally did. read more

Let me start off with saying the staff I spoke with were very nice and responsive. Berkley was not even aware of what he was trying to get my disability for. He kept requesting medical records and I kept telling him that it was not for physical disability but for mental. I'm not ashamed of saying that. I had seen a psychiatrist for years and was seeing a phycologist for the past 2 years as directed by by psychiatrist. Berkley never addressed my issue correctly. read more

Excellent care, support and service...I can't recommend them enough! I was diagnosed with a chronic health condition that left me unable to work. From the very beginning, the team at Berkley were knowledgeable, honest, prompt and compassionate. They were upfront about what I could expect including timelines, appeals and paperwork needed. I was never left wondering where my case was at or what was happening. They communicated brilliantly every step of the way and always answered my phones calls and replied to my emails the same day. They truly cared about me as a person, not just as a case. My case was approved last week and although it was a very long 3 1/2 year process (which they were very clear about from the beginning as that is the time the government takes to process these cases) their attention and care made the process and waiting easier to bear. Thank you Cliff, Jenni, Diana and Priscilla for your time, expertise and, most of all, care and excellent service for seeing me through the most difficult time in my life. You are a blessing and I appreciate you and all you have done to help me. I will be forever grateful! read more

I wish there was a ten star option here on Yelp, because I'd be using it! Jenny, Sam, Cliff and a name or two I'm missing (my apologies) are all excellent and super knowledgeable about this potentially draining complicated process. I can't express what a wise choice it is to join forces with these guys! Sure, you can check the rest, but choose the Best, Berkley Disability. A darn great choice. Thank you everyone! read more

After hiring to help with social security disability we received terrible service. He never followed up with us at all. Once we got a denial letter we heard nothing. Very unprofessional read more

I need help with a permanent disability claim and while an attorney turned me down and another never even responded, Cliff did not. He listened to me intently as I explained my situation, and his response demonstrated his thorough understanding of how this process works, and his approach gave me hope. He has answered all my questions promptly, even during this busy season when most people are off. A win is never guaranteed, and we are still in the preliminary stages of the process, but I feel supported and confident that I have a fighter on my side, especially since compensation is contingent on getting a win. I will update this review as the process progresses, and the rank of the review will not depend on the outcome nearly as much as on how my claim is handled along the way, and so far, it's a 5 star, emerald diamond rating. Thank you Cliff! read more

Berkeley disability is an awesome team. I had been turned down twice and then I Decided to get some help. Berkeley did not let me down. They won my case! read more

Mr. Berkley and his staff have to be the most amazing law firm to get your disability to you. He got my disability and fought for me all the way. He was respectful and made me feel heard as a client! Looking for help then call up Berkley's Law Firm, he'll fight for you. read more

He was very helpful and professional; had answers to my questions; knows his stuff - thanks!

I would recommend this attorney to anybody that is willing to file for disability he was kind professional honest and transparent.

I had a history with poor legal representation in the past, so I had been fighting with Social Security Disability by myself for years -- and getting nowhere. The process was so confusing and had terrible twists and secrets that I realized I'd never be able to navigate myself. Out of desperation, I hired Berkley Disability to advocate for me with SSID, but honestly, I didn't have high hopes that their assistance would be an improvement. Berkley Disability turned out to be the best decision I made since my fight with SSID began. Not only is the Berkley office staff understanding, responsive, knowledgable, and kind, Cliff Berkley himself was all of these things and also took the time to personally explain a very confusing and intimidating process in a way that did not make me feel stupid -- in fact, they made me feel important and validated. When we had to go before an administrative law judge, I was terrified, but Berkley Disability took the reins; their vast experience in the SSID arena protected me from what I didn't know about the process, making the path to success much more clear, straight, and navigable. Truly, I was very pleased and grateful to pay them what we agreed, and that's saying something. I never could have accomplished what I did in this experience without the help of Berkley Disability. read more

I posted a review when I first started with them in April 2020. They are go kind and the listen to you and very good at returning your calls. I was fortunate to get my disability approved in 8 months. Jenny was so great. Helpful with understanding what they were asking on the questionnaires. When my case was approved she answered all my questions and it was like saying goodbye to a friend. She was kind enough to say if I still have questions I can call. If I had to use them again would I YES!!! S. MELLER-ROJAS read more

So far so good. Friendly staff and quick communication, will post update soon! Just started my appeal! read more

I used Berkley Disability for my dad's application. The initial consultation went really well (it probably also helped that my dad had a very straightforward case). But after great communication in the first stage, it seemed to dwindle quickly. I will grant that if I reached out first with a question, they did respond quickly. But it also felt as though I was doing all the work, and simply "cc"-ing them after the fact. I think what was most surprising was that after the case concluded, I received no communication from them. In fact, due to the lack, I wasn't even positive that everything had truly concluded. It wasn't until I called them about the disability payments and their own reimbursement, that I knew things were finalized. read more

I emailed Cliff Berkley's law firm about my situation, which doesn't provide any opportunity for Cliff to earn any money. Yet, he called me and talked to me patiently and intelligently and compassionately and offered resources and other contacts ---- people who could assist me. I am so touched by his generosity. He made my day. read more

Initial impressions were positive. Then the problems started. Not calling when appointments were scheduled was my Cheif complaint. I expressed this concern hoping to work things out and be able to continue working with them. Instead of listening to concerns and trying to rectify it Samantha got defensive and started blaming/accusing me as being the problem. Sorry cellphones don't lie. If you called there would be a record and if it was me calling also a voicemail...heck I would have called more than once for a missed appointment then I would have emailed... none of this happened. When I brought this to her attention again immediately blamed me for the issue. How can I work with a company who is supposed to be helping me with my disability but instead is more interested in blaming and accusing. I did have great first contact with both the office and Cliff. Really bummed the ball was dropped and instead of working to pick it up they got accusatory. It's really easy to over look things when there is either some accountability and/or an apology. "I'm sorry we missed our appointment let's get things back on track" literally all it would take. read more

Berkeley Disability surpassed my expectations regarding my SSDI case. Cliff , Jenni and the rest of the staff were wonderful to work with. Cliff and the staff made sure to completely communicate and inform me of each and every step we needed to go through. My case was not easy and took some time (because of Social Security), but in the end we received the desired outcome. I fully recommend Berkeley Disability. read more

Empathy... clients such as us need that and this was exhibited throughout. I won my case and am so glad i hired Cliff and his team. Hire them. read more

The best thing about Cliff is that he really cares about his SSDI clients; and, because he makes truth, forthrightness, and being precise the paramount focus of your case. We came to him when my husband and I could no longer find our way through Social Security's maze of "technical" denials, medical denials, refusal to acknowledge my husband's service connected Veterans disability; and, ultimately, denied any further appeal. Cliff & the entire family team at Berkeley Disabilty knows their stuff when it comes to SSA/SSDI law, rules, & regs; (and, unfortunately, what isn't always fair and impartial dealings within our judicial system). Win, lose, or draw we are definitely winners for choosing right by selecting Berkeley Disabilty to represent us versus the jakyls at the Social Security Administration. Thank you, Cliff! ~ Cynthia & Van read more

I am so thankful for the outstanding representation I've received from Berkley Disability. Throughout my entire (and complex) SSI & SSDI claim process - Cliff, Jenni and Samantha were awesome! Together they were dedicated and committed to achieving a positive outcome...and they did! Highly professional, well-spoken, friendly and very hard working is how I would describe the entire team at Berkely Disability. During the entire process they were available and listened attentively to my needs - always reassuring, patient and very responsive. From my "Initial Application" to my "Request for Reconsideration" and all the way through to my "Hearing" with an Administrative Law Judge - Cliff, Jenni and Samantha skillfully navigated me through the entire process to a favorable ruling and positive end result. I would HIGHLY recommend Berkley Disability to anyone who is looking for outstanding representation with an SSI or SSDI claim. read more

After three or four years of back and forth ridiculousness with the SSA, my seemingly obvious case was approved after hearing. I had ideas on how to win my case - I am glad however that I listened to Cliff's guidance. I received everything I was entitled to upon approval! Many thanks to Cliff and the team at Berkley Disability. read more

Before being hit by a car while walking my dog, I was a sales executive for financial services products. I started my early career in the 1980's selling Professional Disability Income Insurance. Needless to say, I was well schooled in the downside, time spent, and the difficulties involved in getting Social Security Disability. Fortunately, for me, I found Mr. Berkley and his assistance. What impressed me the most is that I was treated like a person and not a paycheck. He spent time with me during our initial meeting, not knowing my complete background, taking his time explaining the time it would take, how to navigate the system, and setting honest expectations. I found everything to be spot-on! I found his knowledge and services to be 5 Star. I would highly recommend him to anyone should they run into difficulty getting their benefit approved. read more

Cliff, Caron, and the whole Berkley staff will forever have a place in our hearts! Long story short, when I contacted them I was not in a good place mentally. I felt that this would waste my time and theirs. I was reassured time and time again. I was reserved because of my younger age, but still Mr. Berkley (Cliff, don't you dare call him that) kept at it. I met with Cliff two times, he calmly and thoroughly explain all of the nuances of my case out. He laid out what would be asked of me. I was nervous and forgot just about everything we spoke about. I completely felt after court I had bombed it. I was a mess. Tears, slightly raised voices, and snappy answers. I apologized to Cliff afterwards. To my surprise, I think that is exactly what Cliff wanted. Honesty. The way he countered the judges questions and the way he maneuvered through my records on the spot, floored me. Of course we got a favorable ruling! And in my eyes that is due to nothing more than the hard work of all of those at Berkley Law! Again, thank you all for the awesome, life changing help! P.S. Sierra says thank you Mr. Incredible..!! read more

They don't make lawyers like this anymore. Cliff is smart, kind, persistent and thinks outside of the box. He's actually practicing law for the right reasons - to help sick people survive. read more

After suffering a massive stroke, and applying for disability benefits, my disability claim was denied. I was left disabled. But I just didn't know how to prove it to the disability office. In fact, all of the people that know me treat me as a disabled person (because I am, unfortunately). The decision didn't make any sense. At the bottom of the denial letter it said I could dispute the the denial. But I knew I was in a foreign territory and wasn't going to be able to succeed on my own. Therefore, I contacted Berkley Disability; it was a great decision. I suffered a massive stroke on June of 2016; I nearly lost my life. My whole left side of my body was permanently affected (leaving me very weak); but fortunately, I can manage around with the use of a cane. My whole left side of my face is 100% paralyzed. I can't blink with my left eyelid or move my left cheek. In fact, I need to have my left eye completely shut almost 24 hours a day to protect it from excessive dryness (and potential eye-loss); so, I always have my eye taped shut and just use my right eye. And, I have 100% hearing loss on my left ear; I can't even carry over 10 lbs! Moreover, I often forget things; I just can't keep up with everyday endeavors. I just forget (I suffer from short-term memory loss regularly). I really could keep filling up the page with more details. But the point is that I knew the denial was unjust. Aside from visiting doctors here in the US, I had visited numerous doctors in Mexico (because it was cheaper) and I personaly thought they (the doctors outside the US were irrelevant to my case). Berkley Disability thought otherwise; they explained to me that this was vital to building a case for me and after providing them with all of my records from Mexico (thanks to many, many, persistent reminders by the Berkley staff), they had them translated to English (at no cost to me). All of the staff at Berkley Disability was extremely patient with me; I am very sure it wasn't easy for them having to send me all of those constant reminders, via text, via email, via mail, via phone call! At one point I apologized for the fact that I constantly overlooked things. One of the staff members replied, "You hired us not to be your friends. You hired us to represent you and give you the best winning chances." When you hire Berkley Disability you're hiring professionals. Berkley Disability knows how to build a case (of course when you really have one) and they will not rest until your case is solid and ready for a hearing. I'm very grateful to have had their counsel and representation. Be aware, they will literally be on your case with the intent to help you build a solid case. I really appreciate their persistent reminders regularly. I couldn't have gotten my benefits without their help. 5 solid stars! Thank you Berkley Disability. read more

Thank you soo much Cliff Berkley for your support in helping me & being kind & patient with me & those who helped out in this case I Thank God as well for giving you support in believing in me may God continue to bless you always Amen read more

God bless Cliff Berkley and his outstanding team (Jenni, Samantha, and Karen)! I've never contacted an attorney before in my life, so I was initially quite nervous. Not only because it was my 1st time, but also because my case was denied by SSD. I didn't know how to properly justify my case and go through all the challengingly complicated, detailed paperwork and procedures. I found BERKLEY DISABILITY on Yelp and based upon his CONTINUOUS 5 STAR REVIEWS and what wonderful things his clients have written, I made an appointment. After our appointment, I left his office so absolutely relieved, reassured, and even elated! Cliff and his team are all so warm-hearted, caring, attentive, and professional. They worked on my case, and were always so diligent in communication with the status. Behold! Because of them...and ALL CREDIT TO THEM, I was APPROVED!!! I made the 100% right decision to go to them! I am WHOLEHEARTEDLY & ECSTATICALLY THANKFUL to CLIFF and to his amazing SUPERHERO TEAM! read more

First, I like to start off by saying this, FIRM has great staff and professionalism, and I certainly recommend this office to many others. I recently just want my say once again, give him a call he will certainly be well worth it. Sincerely, CASE SUCCESS read more

I had originally applied for disability on my own and was denied. I called and spoke to Cliff who had worked with others with my same brain condition and was confident he could help me. Their office appealed the decision and I was just informed that I was approved! I cannot thank Cliff, Jennifer and everyone else who has worked so hard on my case. I am eternally grateful for their help and guidance during this process. read more

Cliff Berkley and his team Jenni and Sam are Amazing! HE WON MY CASE!! From start to finish Cliff Berkley Disability was professional, attentive and reliable. Cliff Berkley is someone you can trust! He followed thru on everything he told me. Jenni and Sam worked hard on my case too. Every single time I would contact the office one of these ladies took time to answer my questions in detail until Cliff could call me back. (Which he did every time). Cliff shows empathy and kindness to his clients, at times I would be in tears afraid of being denied and he would console me and tell me he would FIGHT for me. Having Cliff as my attorney was the best thing I have done for myself. I let him take control! I am so Thankful and Grateful to Cliff and Jenni and Sam. Your in great hands when you have Berkley Disability handle your case. I promise you that this man is honest and trustworthy and he has your best interest at heart.. I would give them 10 STARS! Thank You read more

Mr. Cliff Berkeley was the only willing SSA attorney who assisted & clarified things for me. Although Cliff specializes with SS claims; he still agreed to see me & my son. He did not refer me to other lawyers. He responded to my emails which were lengthy & most importantly, he waived his consultation fee. He said it was the right thing to do. This man is SO ETHICAL and so refreshing. He gives the legal profession a new meaning. He knew I was very concerned with the pending outcome of a pressing situation but I left his office feeling much better compared to how I felt before I spoke & met with him. He asked me to let him know when I hear something & his concern is genuine. Right is right & that's all it matters. read more

My name is Aide Hernandez. I thank Maria Louisa and Walter, who, with their hard work, made possible the impossible that my other lawyer did not do in seven years and that I had to fire. I was devastated by my worker's compensation case because I regretted signing the insurance proposal because I knew I could fight for my health and my professional future, but my attorney told me there was no more I could do. So I decided to fire him without hearing of another attorney taking my case. Then coming out of the workers' compensation department, I ran into Attorney Walter, and he told me about Maria Louisa's attorney, who has many years of experience in these cases. They immediately gave me an appointment, María Luisa had a great capacity and willingness to listen to my case, and I could see her law knowledge. Her hard work was reflected in her excellent writing skills to persuade the defendant for a good judgment to my case. They accepted our new settlement, 200% more than her proposal, exempting me from fines and additional payments. María Luisa was persevering to achieve my benefit. Angel City Law Los Angeles has a fantastic group with Walter and Maria Louisa, who always showed a passion for their work, compassion for the client, and excellent communication. Since Maria Louisa and Walter are such exceptional professionals, I called Telemundo to discuss this law firm, but unfortunately, they never called me back. Nevertheless, I want all people to know this group of laws since the people deserve to know them. Thank you so much.....! read more

I started filling my claim myself almost 2 years ago... Was denied twice...Then realized I needed a professional to help me navigate the process. I had most of my medical records , but was unsure due to the denial letters that made it sound like even though I suffered from these issues, I was being a baby for not soldiering through & sucking it up. Mr Berkley assured me that I was not making up these issues & I did deserve the benefits I had paid into the system for many, many years. I received a "fully favorable" decision 4 weeks ago. Thank you Berkley Law Office and Mr Berkley for helping me! I definitely picked the right office for help (their are many to choose from) read more