in the Brighton area.  Cops would call up and make dates, often repeating a few times and then cuff the provider and bring them in.

Best stategies?

Get references and check out background.
Stay up with the boards because news of busts often appear there first, also keep an eye on the local papers.

Stay off of Craig's List, the cops seem to use that as their prime source for finding marks.

Develop a sense for what's right and what is not.  That gut sense saves a lot of providers hides.

I often find that reference checks are complicated as providers can lie to get rid of bad clients or make deals with DA

I often take clients like lawyers, doctors and sales people who I can drop in their workplace

many cops can have their own business and several have a truck drivers liscense so don't trust someone whose says he is a trucker

I meet my clients for lunch or dinner. I haven't had legal trouble yet but I also don't advertise in the newspaper or craiglist

I also have a personal ad in yahoo mentioning that I was shy and needed positive friends for advice on running a business and encouragement.

I also never mention money on the date and I never count it in front of the client. I go to the bathroom and look at it. I also never mention condoms. I am extremely paranoid but b/c of it....I am getting a healthy string of repeat clients. I am also looking into a real small business like image consulting for tax reasons.

cross your fingers
I get a speeding ticket every year but I know people who never got one :p

I have come across LE where they are pushy and ask for incall. They can also insist on bringing their pagers or cell phones. If I did incall don't allow the client to bring anything. I mean anything other than a gift, discreetly wrapped.

When they get to the door insist they show valid ID most of the time cops don't want to do it, especially if they lied about their name. Just don't mention that before hand.
If they insist bringing their stuff or cells,then let them know they can't enter until they do. . Why do they need their cell phones and pagers?

I would also be very leary about outcalls when you meet someone at their hotel and they have small bags or briefcases. Especially if their local guys, again why do they need to bring any items with them?

Don't think some cops don't enjoy a little fun before busting you.. they just might.