Who Is Michal Berkner? All You Need to Know About Robert Jenrick’s Wife

As political tensions rise within the Conservative Party, attention has once again turned to Robert Jenrick and his family, particularly his wife Michal Berkner, following recent developments involving Jenrick’s removal from the Shadow Cabinet.

Michal Berkner is a US-born corporate lawyer who has built a successful international legal career. She is married to Robert Jenrick, the Conservative MP for Newark and former shadow justice secretary.

Background and Education

Michal Berkner trained as a lawyer in the United States and later qualified to practise in the UK. She is regarded as a high-profile corporate solicitor and uses her maiden name professionally.

Her legal work has focused on international business and corporate clients, often involving complex cross-border matters.

Marriage to Robert Jenrick

Berkner met Robert Jenrick while he was working as a solicitor. The couple married and have three daughters together. Jenrick has often spoken publicly about family life, describing his home as “a house full of women”.

One of their daughters shares the name Margaret, a reference Jenrick has previously said was inspired by former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, reflecting his admiration for strong female leadership.

Role During Jenrick’s Political Career

Michal Berkner is frequently seen at Conservative Party events and leadership campaign appearances. While she does not hold any political office, she is widely viewed as a strong personal supporter of her husband’s ambitions.

She has continued her legal career alongside Jenrick’s time in government and opposition.

Controversy Over Legal Work

In 2025, media reports highlighted that Berkner had previously advised corporate clients linked to Russian business interests before UK sanctions were imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

At the time, Jenrick’s team said there was no legal wrongdoing, stressing that Berkner acted within the law and that Robert Jenrick himself has taken a firm public stance against the Kremlin. Jenrick was later personally sanctioned by Russia due to his outspoken criticism of Vladimir Putin.

Current Political Context

The renewed focus on Michal Berkner comes as Robert Jenrick faces political turmoil after being sacked and suspended by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, amid allegations he was considering defection from the party.

While Jenrick’s political future remains uncertain, there has been no indication that Berkner is involved in party politics or the internal Conservative dispute.

Private Life

Despite the public attention, Berkner maintains a low profile and has not commented publicly on her husband’s political situation. Friends of the family describe her as highly career-focused and protective of her children’s privacy.