Denied unemployment, how do I appeal? (update)

My claim was denied after 17 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. 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.

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.