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

I was told my separation was for misconduct, which is not what happened. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I have not done a hearing before and I am nervous. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

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

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