Denied unemployment, how do I appeal? after 15 years as a recruiter

My claim was denied after 3 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. My employer's version of events does not match mine, and I have emails that show it. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

File the appeal before the deadline, even if you are unsure. You can gather documents afterwards. That is the one part I would not wait on.

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