Smokeball Reviews

“Incredibly dedicated customer service team

Pros

Our favorite thing about Smokeball is the incredible dedication of their customer service team. They are very knowledgeable and always have our best interests at heart.

Cons

I honestly cannot think of a single thing we dislike about it. They are brilliant at helping your company's own strengths stand out.

“An outstanding all in one platform!!

Pros

It pulls together client emails, documents, calendars and billing into a single cloud-based platform. The secure system for messaging and sharing files is another excellent feature.

Cons

There is absolutely nothing I don't like about it. I have been using it for about seven years now and it's fantastic for solo practitioners.

“perfect asset

Pros

Smokeball has been an amazing asset for my practice, not just for managing clients but also for creating documents for them.

Cons

It might be surprising but I do not have anything negative to say about my experience.

“Great features but comes with slow support

Pros

The integrations and automation features make my job so much simpler. The way they streamline our workflow is a real time-saver.

Cons

I have a couple of support tickets that have not been open for a very long time. I even asked for updates several times but never got a response.

“Saves me so much time

Pros

I love how much time it saves me on admin tasks. Honestly, every feature has come in handy multiple times and I'm just really thrilled with how well it all works.

Cons

A few of the updates have accidentally deleted some of my saved documents. So I will have to find the time to fix that myself or get someone to do it. I also wish it worked with my Google Calendar as sharing calendars through Outlook has been difficult.

“Invaluable efficiencies for my practice

Pros

I have relied on this tool for many years. The efficiencies it creates in my law practice are absolutely invaluable. Plus the ability to easily track and complete time-sensitive tasks gives me peace of mind that important deadlines won't be missed.

Cons

It is an amazing practice management platform but the price is high. Also the software is not cloud-based, so it uses a lot of space on my hard drive. It would also be great if it integrated directly with MS 365 online instead of needing a plug-in for the desktop version of Outlook.

“Easy to navigate

Pros

Smokeball is easy to find my way around and I like that the small updates do not completely overhaul the layout.

Cons

The billing system in it definitely has a learning curve. I think it's the most difficult part of the software to master.

“centralized hub with great integrations

Pros

It is great having all our files in one place and it works seamlessly with court integrations and email.

Cons

We have had system glitches where documents won't save, even after trying multiple times. I have also tried to contact them about these problems and some suggested improvements but I never got a call back.

“Best case and task management

Pros

The case management and task features, both automatic and assigned are the best. My absolute favorite part is the integrated Infotrack as I love that filed documents go straight into the client file automatically.

Cons

I noticed the integration with Family Law Software has problems when it needs an update and it does not notify you when it's time to do so.

“Excellent case management

Pros

Smokeball is a great case management system. As a general practice firm, we really value the regular updates that make it useful for every single one of our departments.

Cons

We started using the billing feature this year and we have already run into a few glitches and issues with it.

“Great organizational tools

Pros

The organizational tools and the variety of forms available in it are great. It is also incredibly useful that it automatically updates whenever a law changes.

Cons

They keep changing things and removing useful options that used to be available in the reports. The recent updates also made it harder to search for contracts.

“Impressive number of features for practice

Pros

I am quite impressed by the sheer number of features available for the practice from billing to the ability to run many different kinds of reports.

Cons

It is missing some features I'd like to see such as the ability to add a client's race to their profile. It also needs more tools for flat fees and criminal cases to help us provide accurate quotes to clients.

“Extremely user friendly

Pros

The platform is extremely user-friendly and simple to teach to new employees. Plus being able to create and modify custom task lists is absolutely essential for us.

Cons

At times it feels a bit clunky, there are multiple ways to do the same task which can sometimes make training new people confusing.

“Easy to find information and files

Pros

Finding information in the files is not an issue and if you cannot locate something right away, you can just search for keywords to pull up the exact document you need.

Cons

It does not always sync properly with Outlook sometimes calendar events show up in Outlook but do not appear in the tool.

“Outstanding automatic time tracking tool

Pros

Smokeball is an outstanding legal practice management tool. Its automatic time tracking makes sure no billable minute is missed which increases both revenue and accuracy. The document automation and built-in legal forms save countless hours and the user-friendly system keeps every matter organized in a single location. And with its strong Microsoft Office integration and responsive support, it really streamlines legal work and boosts efficiency. So I would highly recommend it to any firm wanting to modernize and grow.

Cons

The legal forms library is helpful but it may not have forms for every jurisdiction or specialized area of law which means we sometimes have to do manual customizations.

“ideal for drafting and basic motions

Pros

The drafting functionality in this tool is excellent for creating concise matter summaries. Also I find it extremely useful for putting together basic motions that need simple data input and form completion.

Cons

I noticed that it is not capable of handling processes that require deep analytical reasoning. Also it cannot synthesize legal theories or suggest creative solutions for complex legal matters.

“Made our entire workflow much smoother

Pros

I love almost everything about it. It has made our entire workflow so much smoother, from automatic time tracking to quick document creation and seamless teamwork.

Cons

There is no way to recover a deleted note or see an audit trail. If someone accidentally deletes a note, it is just gone forever with no way to track the change.

“Excellent for centralizing your practice

Pros

It makes organizing files so simple. I also love having my calendar, my files and my task list all accessible in one spot.

Cons

Sometimes we get an error and at times cannot attach an email directly from the file. Plus there is no way to e-file documents directly from the tool.

“A great new client portal feature

Pros

The new Client Portal feature from the latest update seems like a great idea. I think it will be a fantastic tool for keeping everyone organized.

Cons

As a receptionist I dont use all the detailed features, so I do not have a specific complaint right now. But I do wonder if they will add a Client Portal tab directly within the clients Smokeball matters, as that would be a convenient place to have it.

“provides helpful task list feature

Pros

Smokeball task lists are my favorite feature! Creating tasks and prioritizing them is so simple too. Plus being able to adjust how I view my tasks has been extremely helpful.

Cons

Our team has noticed a lot of problems with the memos. When we are typing them, there is a significant lag. I mean it is just a glitch, not a permanent problem but we have reported it several times to get it fixed.

“Very user friendly for new users

Pros

The platform is very user friendly. Like I just started using it and already feel like I have a good handle on how everything works.

Cons

At times the service can be a bit slow at times which I do not like. Other than that, I am a big fan of the program.

“Great value and keeps me organized

Pros

You get great customer service and excellent value for your money. It also keeps me organized and on top of deadlines. Plus it provides a complete digital history for every single file.

Cons

I wish they had not reorganized the forms and documents section. It was much easier to find things the way it was before. Other than that I cannot think of any complaints!

“Amazing integration with Microsoft products

Pros

The integration with Microsoft products, especially Outlook is amazing. Also the forms library, the new AI and the billing integration with QuickBooks Online are all great. I mean whats not to like here?

Cons

As I said before what is not to like? Every single issue I have ever reported has been fixed or addressed by them. It might take some time but they genuinely want to work with their customers.

“excellent platform for file sharing

Pros

It is is an excellent platform for file sharing. We have been using it for about eight years and as our firm has grown, it has become essential for managing our caseload. It gives our paralegals and attorneys constant access to every open file which is a lifesaver when someone is in court or a deposition and needs a document immediately. We have also eliminated physical storage for old paper files because we can purge them after a case closes, knowing everything is always available digitally in the tool.

Cons

Our only real problem with it has been the billing software. When we first started, it left a lot to be desired especially since we came from a dedicated billing system. It has improved a lot since then though we still hit an occasional glitch. Thankfully, the technicians usually resolve it quickly.

“No longer good for small practices

Pros

The automatic time tracking and email saving were real innovations. It was a breath of fresh air after using Actionstep. The trust account management and support are also very good.

Cons

Well the AI and other advanced features are not worth the high price for us. Also they cannot customize the software to fit what our firm actually needs. So it is no longer a good practice management solution for a small practice. They are just getting greedy.

“Incredibly useful workflows and task lists

Pros

Smokeball workflows and task lists we can set up are incredibly useful. They help us maintain a standard procedure and keep everyone accountable. The contact cards are helpful too and I love the tags for tracking matters and linking multiple cases to a single client. The forms and templates save us so much time on letters and court documents. The time and expense tracking is also wonderful and we use InfoTrack often for e-signatures on court filings. The memo feature is also invaluable for keeping the whole team updated on each client and matter.

Cons

My main complaint is that when bugs get fixed, the same ones often pop up again later. The glitches do eventually get resolved but it takes a while and they tend to come back.

“Easy file access from anywhere

Pros

My favorite part is the phone app. I can pull up any client file from anywhere. Plus it is easy to use and makes accessing files in court not a issue.

Cons

I wish there was a simpler way to create all my invoices without having to open each individual matter. Other than that I love everything about it.

“constantly improving platform

Pros

I love the complete package of CRM, billing and document drafting. On top of that, the platform keeps getting better with regular updates that incorporate new technology and legal changes.

Cons

The cost for attorney licenses is high and the support staff licenses are almost too expensive to justify. I have actually held off on hiring support staff because of the license cost. I mean there should really be a support staff rate under $100.

“Creates great workplace efficiency

Pros

I really like how it creates efficiency in the workplace. I am also a big fan of Archie, the AI feature.

Cons

To be honest I cannot think of any major downsides, except that sometimes it won't sync properly with Outlook 365 when we schedule events through Outlook.

“makes document and term search simple

Pros

Finding any document or specific term across all our cases is incredibly simple. The built-in billing software with its timer is also extremely useful too and I love how the templates automatically pull details from each individual matter.

Cons

Sometimes it randomly unchecks boxes I have filled in on forms and the billing page occasionally won't load in the browser.

“Absolute best time saving automations

Pros

The automations are the absolute best part and a massive time-saver! It was love at first sight with the automated forms. I must say what an amazing feature.

Cons

My main issue is that I cannot set a reminder for a task on the same day it's due. The system only lets you set them for other days but a same-day alert would be perfect.

“Collaborative and customizable reporting features

Pros

They actually collaborate with our firm to build the specialized reports we require. Another huge plus is being able to arrange files with my own folder structure and not being stuck with a bunch of default folders I don't need.

Cons

I wish I had a more detailed guide to work with but I know this is partly on me. Also I would love to have step by step tutorial for setting up templates. I have so many I want to create but I do not have the time to watch long videos to figure out each little step.

“Neatly organized for easy locating

Pros

I like how Smokeball is neatly organized into clients, matters and time & expenses, it makes it easy to locate exactly what we are looking for.

Cons

It can sometimes take a long time to load and you need a constant internet connection to find your documents.

“great for drafting and file organization

Pros

Well I am a big fan of how Smokeball helps draft legal documents and keeps all my files neatly organized in a single location.

Cons

I wish the Archie AI was more capable. I have had some problems with it like it does not do a great job summarizing deposition transcripts. So I find myself using ChatGPT because it's more helpful.

“Game changing access to all files

Pros

Having access to all my files no matter where I am is a game-changer. I have taken my computer to depositions and trials without needing to haul around boxes of paper.

Cons

Some parts of the interface like the section for tracking settlement talks, feel a bit clunky and are not the easiest to use.

“Consolidates everything into one system

Pros

It consolidates everything into one system which is very useful for both our clients and the firm. In short everything is well-organized and the customer service is great too.

Cons

only thing that really bothers me is the character limit on messages. If I write too much, it just stops me from sending it.

“So user friendly for new staff

Pros

The software is so user-friendly which is a huge help when training new staff, it is user friendly and easy for them to pick up. I also really value that the team is open to feedback. They are always receptive to suggestions and proactive about making updates that improve the programs efficiency.

Cons

We dont have many complaints but one tricky issue is scheduling across time zones. If someone creates an appointment in one time zone, it can show up at the wrong time for someone in another zone which causes confusion.

“Great seamless Outlook integration

Pros

Smokeball user experience is great, the Outlook integration is seamless and the ability to convert documents from Word or image files to PDF is invaluable. Also the calendar is slick and easy to use. Moreover the tech support has always been quick and knowledgeable.

Cons

The search function is not as easy to use as it used to be. Before I could type something like smith rodeo to find the Smith sale on Rodeo Blvd, but now I cannot. That's my biggest gripe. Also the emails in the emails tab do not automatically sort by date and I cannot set that as the default like I can in the matter tab.

“Remarkable integration and workflow features

Pros

I love almost everything about it. I honestly dont know how we managed to practice law without Smokeball. The integration with InfoTrack for court e-filing and the workflow features are especially remarkable. Their customer service is wonderful too and they are very receptive to ideas and suggestions from their users.

Cons

To be honest I am not sure what I dislike. We have been using it for nearly a decade and I still like everything about it.

“perfect for document merging

Pros

It is great for keeping me organized. I love that I can save email attachments directly into the client file and how it simplifies emailing. The most impressive feature to me is its ability to merge documents into a single PDF and automatically generate a table of contents.

Cons

The billing module is generally pretty tough to navigate. Also I don't like the way it handles posting payments and I wish I had a simpler way to add them in.

“Completely changed how we practice law

Pros

Smokeball has completely changed how we run our practice. It is so simple and user-friendly, designed to make everyday legal tasks much simpler. From day one, we saw how it seamlessly brings all our files, matters, emails and documents together in one secure spot. So now no more searching through folders or tracking down paper trails. Everything is right at our fingertips. The customer support is also a standout. As their team is proactive, checking in regularly to make sure we are maximizing the platform. They go above and beyond with helpful training sessions tailored to real legal work.

Cons

It comes packed with great features but it can feel a bit overwhelming initially for a smaller firm or solo practice that does not need all the advanced tools right from the start.

“Huge help with filing integration

Pros

The filing integration is a huge help for lawyers. We can file documents online through Smokeball and once they are filed, they automatically save to the correct client file.

Cons

My main con is the price. I think the top-tier package which every attorney needs, is just too expensive.

“Very user friendly

Pros

Smokeball organization is my favorite part. The workflows and task lists are set up in a very user-friendly way that's easy to navigate.

Cons

The only issue I have ever run into is an occasional system lag but the support team has been extremely helpful and quick to resolve it every time.

“Significantly boosted our office efficiency

Pros

Our office has relied on it for a decade and it has significantly boosted our efficiency by automating documents and file setup.

Cons

We'd really like to have more input with the development team on what upgrades and fixes get included in each new release.

“Powerful features with proper instruction

Pros

All the features are really powerful as long as you use them properly. With the right instructions, it can help with almost anything you need.

Cons

Excel does not interact well with it. It often freezes up, forcing me to restart the program. Also when I save a spreadsheet, the formulas do not always display correctly in it.

“Easy to use with great connections

Pros

It is easy to use and connects well with the other applications I use every day. Communicating with others on the platform is also not a problem anymore.

Cons

One and only complaint is that it does not work with the newest version of Outlook yet. But it is not a huge problem, though.

“very streamlined for easy management

Pros

The whole process is very streamlined making it incredibly easy to manage documents, emails and more. Plus I love that you can input data once and it automatically populates your forms.

Cons

When there are system glitches, it completely stops us from working because we rely on the software for everything.

“Impressive integration and matter tracking

Pros

I am quite impressed by how well it integrates with other apps and its robust system for tracking all the different types of client matters.

Cons

It seems to have more bugs than the other software I used before. This really slows us down and makes everything less efficient.

“Top notch file organization

Pros

The file organization, templates, billing and the seamless integration with Microsoft Teams for emails and documents are all top-notch. The cloud-based encrypted technology is also a major plus.

Cons

Sometimes it runs slowly and does not work properly. Our feature requests and support tickets do not always get resolved quickly and the Archie AI makes a lot of errors.

“the best customer service

Pros

Smokeball customer service is absolutely the best I have ever experienced. Without a doubt, its support team completely outshines every competitor.

Cons

Generating reports is not always easy. Sometimes we have to reset the specifications repeatedly just to get a report to generate correctly.