How to Build Your Own Smokeball
Replace Smokeball with a custom build. Cloud-based legal practice management software for law firms
Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
Estimated Timeline
Based on 40 features at Weekend Project difficulty, expect about One weekend with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 40 features
Security(4 features)
Automated daily backups with disaster recovery and point-in-time restoration options.
End-to-end encryption for all data at rest and in transit with compliance certifications.
Set permissions and restrict access based on user roles within the firm.
Enhanced security with optional two-factor authentication for user accounts.
Documents(3 features)
Automatically generate legal documents with smart templates and conditional clauses.
Library of pre-built legal document templates with conditional logic and smart fields.
Organize, search, and retrieve case documents with version control and secure storage.
Productivity(3 features)
Perform bulk actions on multiple matters, tasks, or contacts simultaneously.
Automated deadline tracking and calendar management with email reminders.
Create, assign, and track tasks with priority levels and completion status.
Time & Billing(3 features)
Set up recurring time entries for routine billable activities.
Pre-defined time entry templates for common tasks to speed up billing entry.
Track billable hours across multiple matters with automatic timer and manual entry options.
Accounting(2 features)
Record and categorize expenses with automatic reconciliation and client billing options.
Manage client trust accounts with compliance reporting and reconciliation tools.
Billing(2 features)
Create and send invoices automatically based on tracked time and expenses.
Customizable invoice templates with firm branding and configurable line items.
Case Management(2 features)
Centralized platform to organize case details, deadlines, and matter information.
Track matter lifecycle from intake to closure with customizable status workflows.
Communication(2 features)
Secure portal for clients to access case status, documents, and communicate with their attorney.
Integrated email system with automatic matter linking and archive functionality.
Cost Calculator
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Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 40 features at very easy complexity.