Denied unemployment, how do I appeal? after 13 years as a medical assistant

My claim was denied after 16 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I have been trying to stay organised about it. I have not done a hearing before and I am nervous. 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.

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