When a health condition prevents you from working, the benefits process can feel overwhelming. We help you prepare a clearer application, understand a denial, and consider the next steps.
Bill Berke opened his practice in Southwest Florida in 1986. Cape Coral remains the firm’s home base. You can start with a phone conversation and discuss what is needed for your particular matter.
Start with a conversation. We’ll help you understand the information that matters and whether your situation is one the firm can assist with.
Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income have different non-medical requirements. SSDI generally depends on insured status and work history; SSI considers income and resources. Both use Social Security’s definition of disability for adult applicants.
A diagnosis alone does not tell the whole story. Treatment records, test results, provider information, and descriptions of your functional limitations help Social Security assess your claim. Work history and consistent, accurate application details also matter.
Read the decision carefully and keep the notice. The reason for denial and the stage of your claim help determine the next step. Appeals have deadlines, so contact the firm promptly rather than waiting to gather every document.
Founder · Practicing since 1986
For more than 35 years, Bill Berke has represented injured people and plaintiffs.
He founded the firm in 1986. His commitment to careful preparation and personal attention continues to guide how the firm listens, reviews evidence, and advocates.
From the first conversation to the steps your circumstances require, we help you understand the process.
Tell us what happened. Ask your questions and discuss whether the firm can help.
If we take your case, we examine the records, relevant evidence, and issues that need attention.
We explain the available steps, the proposed representation, and what we need from you.
We handle the legal work within our representation and keep you informed along the way.
Bring the documents you already have. Missing records shouldn’t keep you from asking for help.
Official resource: Social Security’s disability eligibility guidance.
Here are a few things people often ask before reaching out.
Ask us about your situationYes. Start with what you know about the event, your concerns, and any notices you have received. We can explain which documents may be useful and whether anything needs prompt attention.
We discuss the facts, the available records, and your questions about social security disability. The conversation helps determine whether the firm can assist and what the next step may be.
Ask about fees, costs, and the scope of representation during your consultation. We explain the proposed arrangement before you decide whether to proceed.
No. An assessment depends on the facts, evidence, applicable rules, and available coverage. We explain which factors matter and what information is needed.
You don’t need to have all the answers. Let’s discuss what happened, what matters to you, and how we may be able to help.
(800) 572-3753A thoughtful review. A clearer next step.Give us a little context. We’ll take it from there.
Berke Law Firm is based in Cape Coral and serves people across Florida. This page describes a service area; it does not imply an office in Cape Coral. Information is general and does not replace advice about your circumstances.