Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial

My claim was denied after 11 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. This is my first time dealing with any of this. My employer's version of events does not match mine, and I have emails that show it. 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.

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.