Our Purpose
We’re all about community.
Our legal community, the communities we live in, and our Smokeballers.
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 law firms succeed.
Our dedication lies in creating the best legal practice management software, empowering our users to stay organised, productive, and more profitable than ever before.
The Smokeball Story with Jane Oxley from Smokeball Australia on Vimeo
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
This expansion is led by our London Managing Director, Rachel Holmes, supported by local legal product experts and dedicated customer support and sales teams.
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.
Testimonials
Rachel Bosnjak
Passage Migration Consulting, AU
“What set Smokeball apart for me is the impeccable onboarding experience that I had…It can be a lonely world in start-up land, so it was a bonus to have a real person on the other end of the line to talk to!”
Hugo Aston
Aston Partners Lawyers
“I must say, I have just moved over to Smokeball. I was with my previous PMS for 20 years. Your service is a thousand times better!”
Bron O'Loan
O'Loan Family Law
“The FamilyProperty and Smokeball integration has made things really easy for us. It’s all there within the one system which is fantastic as we’re very busy.”
Sarah Ibrahim
Central Lawyers, Racial Justice Centre
“Deciding to sign up to Smokeball has been one of the best decisions I have made, what amazing product and extraordinary collective of positive and helpful people that make up the Smokeball family!”
Meet The Leadership Team
Introducing the Smokeball Leadership Team: experts in legal software development with backgrounds as conveyancers, lawyers, and industry-leading developers.
Hunter Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Jane Oxley
Chief Revenue Officer
.svg) Bart Vadala
Chief Technology Officer
.svg) Adele Hoyle
Chief Product Officer
.svg) Michael Campbell
Chief Financial Officer
Nick Ognenovski
Country Manager, AU
Join The Team!
At Smokeball, you'll be working with a committed and talented bunch of people who really enjoy working together.
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.
Ben Enviah
Delivery Manager Team Lead, Team AU
“From day one at Smokeball, I felt incredibly welcomed and valued as part of the team. The support from the leadership team has been amazing, always encouraging and guiding me.”
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Lee Senft
Account Executive, Team UK
“I love working at Smokeball because of the wonderful culture. It is worlds apart from other places I've worked at.”