Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial (Sacramento)

I got a denial letter last week saying I left my job voluntarily, but I was let go as a store manager. There are 3 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. My employer's version of events does not match mine, and I have emails that show it. If you have appealed before, what helped you prepare?

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