The first thing you must do is file a claim with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You must file a claim every week. You also have to apply for two jobs every week. ODJFS will send you an initial determination. The initial determination will tell you if there was just cause for employment termination. If you are denied unemployment benefits you must appeal to the ODJFS Director. If denied again appeal again. Your case will be sent to the Unemployment Compensation Review Commission (UCRC). The UCRC will schedule a telephone hearing. At the hearing you need to present evidence. You will have a chance to cross-examine the employer’s witnesses.

Hire the best employment lawyer to represent you at the hearing. Let me say it again: Hire an employment lawyer to represent you at the hearing. Chances are the employer will have a professional representing them. You should too.

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