Domestic Violence Unit

The Domestic Violence Unit of the Northampton County District Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting survivors of abuse and holding offenders accountable through a compassionate, trauma-informed, and coordinated approach to prosecution.

Led by Assistant District Attorney Ellen S. Kingsley, this specialized unit includes four experienced prosecutors and a dedicated County Detective who handle a range of domestic violence cases, including:

  • Intimate partner violence

  • Family-related assault

  • Stalking and harassment

  • Terroristic threats

  • Other related crimes

Prosecutors and staff are specially trained to recognize the complex dynamics of domestic abuse and work to reduce barriers that prevent victims from seeking help. By combining legal action with victim support services, the unit aims to break the cycle of abuse and promote long-term safety and justice for individuals and families throughout Northampton County. 

Collaborative & Survivor-Centered

The unit works closely with:

  • Local law enforcement agencies

  • In-house victim coordinators

  • Community-based advocacy groups and shelters

Each case is carefully investigated, evaluated, and prosecuted with a clear focus on victim safety, dignity, and long-term stability. Whether it’s securing protective orders, connecting individuals with support services, or pursuing criminal charges, the Domestic Violence Unit offers both legal and emotional support throughout the entire process.

Specialized Training & Understanding

Domestic violence cases often involve complex personal and legal dynamics. That’s why our prosecutors and staff receive specialized training to recognize:

  • Patterns of coercive control

  • Cycles of abuse

  • Barriers that may prevent victims from seeking help

The team is dedicated to creating a safe, respectful, and responsive environment where victims feel heard, believed, and empowered to move forward.

Our Mission

The Domestic Violence Unit is driven by a clear goal: To break the cycle of abuse through accountability, advocacy, and access to justice.

By combining legal action with robust victim support, the unit promotes:

  • Individual and family safety

  • Community awareness

  • A strong message that domestic abuse will not be tolerated in Northampton County