Our Purpose: We're all about community.
Our legal community, the communities we live in, and our Smokeballers.
The Origin Story
If you're reading this, you're probably curious about who we are, why we exist, and what it means to partner with us—whether as a client or along your career path. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey!
Independently Owned & Proud
Smokeball was founded by Australian legaltech pioneers Hunter Steele, Jane Oxley and Bart Vadala, who bring nearly 25 years of experience in delivering impactful legal technology. After working together for many years in the industry, Hunter, Jane and Bart set out to prove that nice guys can finish first. Their vision was to create a company where clients and staff are genuinely valued, and where we can build great things together. At Smokeball, we believe that a supportive and innovative environment leads to exceptional results.
Our Love For The Law
We’re passionate about developing a company, culture, and team that share a profound love for the law and a commitment to helping small law firms succeed. Our dedication lies in creating the best legal practice management software, empowering our users to stay organized, productive, and more profitable than ever before.
Our Independence
We’re proud to be a private company with no external ownership. Smokeball is wholly owned by shareholders, many of whom are our employees, who are deeply invested in our mission and success. We've never acquired another practice management software company, allowing us to maintain our unique identity and values.
What's In A Name?
“Smokeball? Why Smokeball?”
We hear that question often. Our founders chose a name that not only stands out but also carries a legacy from British legal history dating back to 1893. The case of Carlill v. Carbolic Smoke Ball Company involved a company that offered £100 to anyone who used their influenza remedy, the “smoke ball,” and still caught the flu. When a customer did and successfully sued for the reward, the case became a landmark in contract law.
So why Smokeball? While the case may be obscure to many, the name is unforgettable. Just as the plaintiff’s attorneys fought for justice, we’re dedicated to helping our clients succeed in serving their communities.
Our Offices
With our global head office in Sydney, we expanded into the USA in 2013 with an office in Chicago. In 2023, we continued our growth into the UK, opening an office in London.
Our Clients
With over 15,000 clients worldwide, our team brings extensive legal experience to the table. Our dedicated sales, account management, support and legal product experts are determined and passionate humans who drive our award-winning service. At Smokeball, you can always expect knowledgeable, empathetic, and friendly interactions.
We Believe in Ethical Business Practices
At Smokeball, we know our clients own their data. We make it easy for them to access and export their information, understanding that relationships can change. Our commitment to client autonomy and data security is unwavering.
Our Smokeballers
Our global team of Smokeballers are our greatest assets.
We're more than just a software company; we're a community dedicated to innovation, support, and excellence. Smokeball is not just a great company to work with, but a great company to work for, thanks to our unique approach to UX, marketing, support, and career growth.
Don’t just take our word for it—hear it directly from the team!
Values Aren’t Just Words On A Wall
We live and breathe our values, which are at the core of every decision we make. From product prioritization and roadmaps to benefits for our team members, we always stand behind our six core cultural values. These values are the foundation upon which our business is built.
Our Leadership Team
Introducing the Smokeball Leadership Team: experts in legal software development with backgrounds as conveyancers, lawyers, and industry-leading developers.
Passionate about legal communities?
Join the team!
At Smokeball, you'll be working with a committed and talented bunch of people who really enjoy working with each other.