Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial - what worked for you?

I got a denial letter last week saying I left my job voluntarily, but I was let go as a web developer. There are 6 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. The letter lists a deadline and a hearing process, but it is hard to follow. If you have appealed before, what helped you prepare?

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