Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial - 6 months and counting

My claim was denied after 12 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I am in Buffalo, in case local advice matters. The letter lists a deadline and a hearing process, but it is hard to follow. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

I printed my emails in order and wrote a one-page timeline. The hearing officer kept going back to it.