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

My claim was denied after 11 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I am in Portland, in case local advice matters. 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?

Legal aid offices and some workforce centres help with unemployment hearings at no cost. A call is worth it.