The Client Portal (formerly Communicate) is Smokeball’s secure messaging and file-sharing platform, designed to protect confidential client information and streamline communication.
The portal allows you to send documents, messages, event invites, and invoices from the matter screen in Smokeball.
If sending something to an external party, they will receive a customisable email invitation prompting them to log in to view the shared information. They won’t need a username or password; access is granted securely through the unique link in the email.
Once they are in, the external party will be able to see all the items sent over to them in the form of a To Do list.
View our Client Portal Tour article for more screenshots of the Client Portal experience from your client's perspective.
Best way to access the Client Portal
To enjoy the new client portal experience, clients and third parties should access their items through a web browser.
If they already have the Communicate app on their mobile device, they can delete it to switch to this updated web, portal experience. They are also welcome to keep using the previous app, but please note that some features won’t be available there.
If you would like to send your clients and/or third parties an introductory guide for how to access and start using the Client Portal, please use this link.
Client Portal Features
Secure File Sharing & Messaging
- Share confidential files or chat securely with your client without leaving Smokeball.
- Ensure all communications stay protected. You can even share entire folders with your client!
- Learn more about sending and receiving files securely on the Client Portal.
- If you have the Archie AI add-on, you can use Archie to help convey your message by changing the tone, length or improving your writing.
Invoice Viewing and Payments
- Clients can view and pay invoices securely through the Client Portal, reducing the risk of invoice fraud.
- Learn more about creating and ending an invoice to be viewed via the Client Portal.
Intake Form Submission
- Clients can complete Intake Forms directly in the portal, keeping all correspondence in one secure location.
- Learn more about Lead Intake and Matter Intake.
Staff Internal Messaging
- If staff members work in different locations, or you have remote staff, you can use the Client Portal to send direct messages to individuals or groups.
- You can have internal conversations regarding a specific matter or even set up individual channels for internal use.
- Learn more about messaging internal staff members on the Client Portal.
Communicate Mobile App
- Use the Communicate mobile app to send messages, review files, and get real-time notifications on the go.
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Learn more about the Communicate Mobile App.
SMS Text Messaging
- Send SMS messages directly from a conversation, even if the recipient isn’t using the Communicate app.
- Learn more about sending Client Portal messages to your client as an SMS.