Call Us Now
470-467-2200
Get Free Consult
Get Free Consult
by The Stoddard Firm - November 14th, 2025
Atlanta, GA – The law office of Matthew B. Stoddard is pleased to announce the successful resolution of a human trafficking lawsuit involving a minor victim who was sexually exploited at a hotel in Atlanta. The lawsuit was filed against Budget Hotel LLC, which does business as A2C Budget Hotel Atlanta, and it has been resolved through a confidential settlement.
“This confidential settlement represents a meaningful step toward justice for our client,” said Matthew B. Stoddard, lead counsel. “It also highlights the responsibility hotels have to prevent sex trafficking. No minor should ever suffer the exploitation our client endured.”
The lawsuit, filed under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), alleged that the defendants allowed traffickers to operate on the hotel premises, failing to take reasonable precautions despite evidence of prior suspicious activity.
Evidence in the case included records of repeated trafficker presence, reports of prior crime and prostitution at the property, and communications suggesting the Defendant’s awareness of suspicious behavior. The lawsuit emphasized that hotels and hospitality operators have both a legal and moral obligation to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
While the settlement amount and terms are confidential, its existence reinforces the principle of accountability for businesses that fail to prevent sex trafficking on their premises.
“This case serves as a reminder to the hospitality industry that vigilance and preventive measures are essential,” Stoddard said. “Hotels must maintain safe environments and act promptly when warning signs of trafficking appear.”
Sex trafficking remains a pervasive problem nationwide, with hotels often targeted by traffickers. Legal experts emphasize that proactive monitoring, staff training, and robust safety policies can dramatically reduce the risk of exploitation. Civil lawsuits like this one play a critical role in enforcing corporate accountability and protecting vulnerable individuals.
“This settlement delivers justice to our client and signals to the industry that failure to prevent trafficking carries serious consequences,” Stoddard added.
The Stoddard Firm is a leading Atlanta-based law firm representing victims of human trafficking, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse primarily in North Carolina and Georgia. The firm is dedicated to advocating for justice, protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals, and holding corporations accountable for negligence or misconduct.
“Our client’s bravery in pursuing this case is inspiring,” Stoddard said. “Through this confidential settlement, we aim to provide compensation, justice, and raise awareness about sex trafficking in the hospitality industry.”
A dedicated, ethical advocate who spent years defending major corporations in serious injury and wrongful death cases before switching sides to fight for families who have lost someone. Known for high-profile wrongful death trials featured on Courtroom View Network, he is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, he works tirelessly to pursue accountability and deliver results for families facing catastrophic loss.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
This firm is the best in Atlanta, simple as that.
Matthew Stoddard and his staff are wonderful people. This law firm is a no complication type of place. They always answer the phone without the hassle of going through 30 different people and always return emails just as quick as they are received. Thank you gentlemen for everything y’all do.
I went through one of the worst times of my life. When I decided to reach out to Matt it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He really is a genuine guy who cares about his clients. He worked hard for me and my family for 2 years until we were awarded a settlement we felt deserving! I could not recommend a better guy for your legal services!
Attorney Matthew Stoddard and his staff are awesome professionals. I contacted them with a problem, in my opinion he went above and beyond to assist me. He showed understanding and care and exceeded my expectations.
The Stoddard Firm did an excellent job in representing me in my case ! They went far and beyond to help me, even driving 4 hours to meet me multiple times as a client!!! I honestly felt like I was a member of their legal team and would recommend them to anyone in need of a great lawyer!!!
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
Matthew Stoddard has been published in the Insurance Journal, offering an in-depth analysis of two new Geor...
The Stoddard Firm recently secured a $3,250,000.00 settlement on behalf of a teenage client who suffered a ...
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution recently interviewed Matthew Stoddard, founder of The Stoddard Firm, in a ...
Losing a loved one is devastating. We fight for justice and compensation, offering compassionate, experienced wrongful death representation during your toughest times.
Car accidents can change lives in an instant. We fight for your recovery and compensation, ensuring your future is protected after a crash.
Truck accidents often cause severe injuries. We hold negligent drivers and companies accountable, fighting for the justice you deserve.
Injured on someone else’s property? We help you navigate premises liability claims, ensuring negligent owners are held responsible.
Defective products can cause serious harm. We stand with you to hold manufacturers accountable and secure the compensation you need.
Survivors of sexual assault and trafficking deserve justice. We provide compassionate legal support to help you reclaim your life.
Construction sites are dangerous. If you’ve been injured, we fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering. We advocate for riders, ensuring negligent drivers are held accountable for your injuries.
Burn injuries cause immense pain and long-term challenges. We fight for your recovery and the compensation needed to rebuild your life.
Injured due to poor security? We hold property owners accountable, ensuring you receive justice for their negligence.
Brain injuries can have lifelong impacts. We fight for your future, securing compensation for medical care, lost wages, and more.
Explosions cause sudden, catastrophic harm. We represent victims and families seeking accountability and compensation after serious explosion injuries and wrongful death across Georgia.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
Message Us 
Call Us