Our Team
Balint Legal was formed by two former lawyers with an in-depth understanding of the legal sector, and extensive experience in group work and leadership.
As well as aiming to support the legal profession in developing a more comprehensive toolbox to support mental wellbeing, this initiative also holds a personal element for us both. Had Balint groups been available during our time as lawyers, we believe that we would have been better able to overcome challenges we faced in practice.
Marion Baker
Marion qualified as a lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills and spent 20 years at the firm as a commercial litigator, in professional development and partnership management. Leaving the law to focus on workplace dynamics, she subsequently re-qualified in executive and leadership coaching at the business-focussed Tavistock Institute of Human Relations, and developed a successful coaching practice focussing on legal, educational and business leadership.
This led to greater interest in and work with groups and teams, and further specialist training in group dynamics and reflective practice at the Institute of Group Analysis. She is now involved in Balint group work and leadership through the UK Balint Society.
Suzanne Jacobs
Suzanne qualified as a lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills and worked at the firm for 25 years, initially as a lawyer specialising in commercial litigation and subsequently as a director in the executive office focusing on the firm’s strategic planning, implementation and practice management.
Suzanne went on to take up major leadership roles in the not-for-profit sector including as CEO of The Portland Trust, trustee of several charities and consultancy work. She is now involved in Balint group work and with the UK Balint Society.