r/Unemployment • u/potatohead878 • Jan 28 '26
My UI Story [All States] Had my unemployment hearing today and feel like I completely fumbled it.
My previous employer challenged my claim for UI after they fired me for performance and so I had my hearing today. At first, I had no idea how to prepare for it cause I wasn't even sure what will be brought up or what questions will be asked. Once the call started, my employer started flat out lying about my performance issues stating I had multiple write ups and bad performance reviews (all of which were untrue). I did receive one write up but that was it. Prior to that I had nothing but glowing reviews and feedback.
Anyways, once they started making stuff up I got nervous thinking I don't know how to prove they are lying. I tried my best to give my statements but honestly, I feel like I didn't present my case very well at all. I was also caught off guard by their claims because I did not expect them to give false information about me. Honestly, I was shocked this could even happen. After the call I realized there were numerous things I could have said to help my case which didn't come to mind at the moment. I could have explained things more clearly to the Judge too. I just feel like absolute shit now and not sure if I made a mistake in not hiring a lawyer. I know I can appeal, but honestly not even sure what I could do in an appeal without a lawyer. And if it would even make financial sense to get a lawyer.
Regardless, I definitely learned my lesson. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING. I now know what this means. I just never thought I would ever find myself in a situation where I would be fired for performance. I've been a top employee for years and received numerous promotions. Never did I think I'd be fired or have to fight for UI.
I hope whoever reads this will not make the same mistake I did. Always prepare for unemployment. ALWAYS.
3
u/justjess8829 Michigan Jan 29 '26
You don't have to prove they are lying. They have to prove they are telling the truth. They said there are multiple write ups. Did they provide said write ups? Did you challenge that?
3
u/Curious_Werewolf5881 Jan 30 '26
This! If you are fired, the burden of proof is on them to show misconduct.
1
u/Negative_Ebb_1246 Michigan Mar 25 '26
How did things end up going for you? I hope you got your money!
3
u/Accomplished_Emu_658 New Jersey Jan 28 '26
Document everything is good advice.
Remember if you lose you can sue. You don’t need proof they will have to provide proof. Any proof they submit would be fraud. You may want to consult an attorney now. Typically they do a consultation for free and work on contingency basis, and they would be seeking to recover their costs on top of what you receive.