Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial after 13 years as an electrician's helper

I was told my separation was for misconduct, which is not what happened. I am in Chicago, in case local advice matters. I have not done a hearing before and I am nervous. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.

Stay calm and stick to facts. Mine lasted about thirty minutes and felt more like a conversation than a trial.