I was recently fired from my job in California just before the end of my 90-day probation period. My boss, who was new to her position, was very temperamental and made my work environment quite toxic. Despite having a lot of experience and trying my best to support her, she seemed to deliberately undermine me. She excluded me from important emails and meetings, and I felt like she was sabotaging my reputation. I received two performance evaluations during my probation, both praising my work, but unfortunately, I didn't keep those documents. After I was terminated, I filed for unemployment and was initially approved without any issues. However, about three weeks ago, I received a letter from the Employment Development Department (EDD) stating that my former employer was disputing my unemployment claim, claiming I didn’t do my job as instructed and that they were downsizing. EDD determined these reasons were insufficient to deny my benefits. Just last week, I got another letter saying my former employer is filing another claim against EDD’s decision. I'm really worried because my former boss has shown herself to be vindictive and dishonest. I fear she might fabricate stories to make me look unfit for unemployment benefits, which I desperately need since I haven't found another job yet. Now, I'm waiting for a hearing date and I’m unsure what to expect. Will I be in a room with her and a judge? I have no proof to defend myself since I discarded those performance evaluations. I’m looking for any advice on how to navigate this situation and whether she can be held accountable for her actions.