Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial - any advice?

I got a denial letter last week saying I left my job voluntarily, but I was let go as a school bus driver. The letter lists a deadline and a hearing process, but it is hard to follow. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

File the appeal before the deadline, even if you are unsure. You can gather documents afterwards. That is the one part I would not wait on.

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