Denied unemployment, how do I appeal? after 17 years as an IT help-desk technician

I was told my separation was for misconduct, which is not what happened. I am in Charlotte, 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.