California Social Security Disability Lawyer
California Social Security Disability Attorneys
Trust Your SSD Case with Attorney Roger Drake
Cases involving SSDI or SSI benefits are handled primarily by Attorney Roger D. Drake, who is widely recognized as a leading SSD/SSI attorney. After graduating cum laude from Case Western Reserve University School of Law in 2002, Roger knew he wanted to focus his career on one of the most complicated yet important areas of the law: Social Security Disability. The outcome of an SSD or SSI case can directly shape a client’s financial future and well-being, which is something that Attorney Drake has always taken to heart. When he works on a case at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, he acts as if he is representing himself because that’s what he’d expect if the situation was reversed.
Attorney Roger Drake leads our SSDI team and is trusted by his clients and peers because:
- He has more than 15 years of practice experience focused on SSD cases.
- He can take an SSD case to federal court if you have an Appeal Council denial.
- He has helped more than 1,000 clients in SSD cases and proceedings.
- He is a member of Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars℠.

Help for SSD Claims, Appeals & Hearings in California
At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, we know the struggles that you can face when injuries or disabilities prevent you from working, ranging from rising medical costs to growing debt. That’s why it’s critical to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits promptly.
If you require legal guidance to steer through the Social Security claim procedure, our team of California SSD lawyers, led by Attorney Roger Drake, is ready to jump in and lead the way. Our firm was built by dedicated attorneys who have a wealth of experience in aiding clients throughout California in applying for SSDI and SSI, appealing denials, and delivering persuasive presentations at disability hearings. We understand that you’ll rely on us to get the necessary benefits you need to gain some financial stability, so we’re committed to providing highly effective legal services.
SSDI or SSI?
In the event of a disability due to an accident, ailment, or any form of physical or mental impairment that prevents you from working, you might qualify for federal benefits through Social Security. At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, we are skilled in guiding clients through the intricate process of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), whichever is better for their situation.
Let us determine which of these government assistance programs will be right for you:
- SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program that grants benefits based on disability and work credits. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you need to fulfill the disability criteria set by Social Security and must have made tax contributions, which are typically taken automatically out of your paychecks.
- SSI: On the other hand, SSI is a distinct program that awards benefits based on age/disability and income. To receive monthly SSI payments, your income and resources must be limited. Your tax contributions through monthly paychecks are not considered, so SSI might be available to people who have not worked before or in years.
Determining your eligibility for Social Security benefits can be challenging. That’s why our team at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen offers complimentary consultations. Get in touch with us today to discuss your qualifications and how we can assist you.
Support from Trusted California SSD Attorneys
The process of obtaining Social Security Disability benefits is known for being intricately complicated. Many people who try to manage the claims or appeals procedures independently often face challenges leading to claim rejections or postponements in receiving vital benefits. With Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, our devoted SSD attorneys are committed to guiding clients through every aspect of the California Social Security disability system.
We offer extensive services designed to provide you with the representation necessary to:
- Determine your eligibility for SSDI or SSI.
- Fill out all forms accurately and completely.
- Collect the necessary medical records and evidence to support your claim.
- File the claim to the right Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
- Response to inquiries or requests for more information.
- Act on your behalf in SSD hearings.
- Represent you in an appeal if your claim is denied.
- Discuss the possibility of a federal court appeal if necessary.
Social Security Claim Appeals in California
Our committed team of California SSD lawyers can support you if your claim is denied for any reason. We are ready to act on your behalf during the hearings and appeals stages. We can work relentlessly to defend your interests by collecting vital evidence, bringing robust arguments to the court or hearings, and championing your rights. Contact us today and let us help you in obtaining the benefits that you need.
Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen offers assistance to clients through all phases of the SSD appeals procedure, which includes:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings
- Administrative appeals to the SSA Appeals Council.
- Federal court appeals.
Get Answers for Every SSD Question – Call Now
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Our Promise to You
Why You Can Count on Our Firm
Experience You Can Trust
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Client-Centered Approach
Proven Record of Results
Client testimonials
Real Stories From Real Clients
"Thank you seems woefully inadequate”
“Seamless and caring service.”
“They truly care about their clients.”
“Handled my case excellently.”
“Best with phenomenal work ethics.”
“Great settlement and so happy with results!”
“Utmost in professionalism”
“They always made me feel like a member of their family and not just a client.”

A PROVEN RECORD OF RESULTS
Millions of Dollars Recovered for Our Clients
$100 MILLION
Product Defect And Fatality From Helicopter Crash
$30 MILLION
Fatality/burn Disfigurement From Helicopter Crash
$19.5 MILLION
Brain Damage From Motor Vehicle Accident
$18.5 MILLION
Wrongful Death From Aircraft Accident
$16 MILLION
Motor Vehicle Accident, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
$12 MILLION
Negligence Security Leading To Sexual Assault
$10.8 MILLION
Brain Injury, Premises Liability
$10 MILLION