Meet & greets have been used by providers for decades, especially before the internet, as a means of getting "comfortable" with a gentleman.  Does it replace the level of security from reference checking?   Probably not.  Some ladies trust their instincts along, some don't.  

I'm interested in seeing a relatively new lady for the first time.  She has two reviews already by what appear to be long term TER hobbyists.  References are a challenge for me.  She suggests a brief coffee meeting as an alternative.  She's willing to spend time emailing to work out details.   It appears that she's very accomodating.  But ... my paranoid side kicks in thinking maybe she is not really what she appears to be and a meeting might lead to trouble rather than the beginning of a new business relationship.  So my question,  "is it common for providers to arrange a coffee meeting?"  There was no mention of any cost.   Any advice about how to proceed?  Thanks

I know of a few ladies that meet for coffee like you mentioned.  In the end you need to go with what you are comfy with & roll with it...

Why do you think she may not be what she appears?  I don't see what a public meet for
coffee could hurt.  If you don't click, you don't see each other again.  What I would do
right now is PM the 2 reviewers who you say are long term TER hobbyists and ask them
if your fears are well-founded or not.  And yes, I have done a coffee meeting a few times.
Maybe they're not 'common' but they can work.

a nice touch, in addition.  You won't get arrested in a public place for having coffee with someone.  Her pimp won't jump out of a closet at you.  Most providers take pains to say that they charge for their "time" only (not for any sexual favors...which are between "consenting adults"), so if she's offering a quick meeting (off the clock?), then it seems like a good way to go.  But, as Wingman says, PM-ing the two reviewers is a good idea, too.

With no fee being requested, seems like a real win-win. Agree on a location where you are unlikely to be observed by people you know.  Just don't ask indiscreet questions.  Even in person, the same etiquette applies as it would on the phone.  Remember that in this case the primary purpose is an alternative to references for her benefit.  The benefit for you is a preview of her appearance and personality.  Good luck.  Be sure to let us know how it went.  

IMO, it offers no protection at all.  LE can be nice in public.  But they are still LE behind closed doors where the cash is exchanged.

I don't see the coffee shop thing as a LE check.  I see it as a verification of who you perhaps
will be seeing is actually the girl in the pics, is actually the girl who has been reviewed in this
case, is actually someone you would be interested in spending an hour with behind closed
doors.  It's not LE protection for sure.  And there aren't many of us hobbyists who are going
to be sharing ANY personal information with anyone or any agency anyway...so what's a cup of coffee going to hurt as long as you understand it's not the perfect check.

I get that.   But, for the ladies, just because he is nice in public doesn't mean he won't be an ass behind closed doors.    And, as I already pointed out, doesn't mean he won't be LE.  
Same could be said for a lady....doesn't mean SHE isn't LE, although I highly doubt a female officer would bother with coffee.  they can spend that time busting guys.  

sorry you took offense,  Oleoneeye.  I was just trying to discuss the topic, as I saw it.  At least you don't attack under alias.    That is a plus!

Thanks for all the feedback everyone.  Your input gives me a better feeling about the next setp.  I'll proceed and see what comes of the coffee introduction.   It does seem a little generous of her to offer time together as a screening tool.  Sounds like she is building up a client list and willing to invest a little extra to draw those she wants to spend time with.  I'll report back.  

Be safe and have a blast!

Maybe she just likes coffee

If it is someone I have seen recently, don't even think twice! Go for it!

...came as a result of meeting for coffee.  Your time together will likely be more comfy for both of you.

I would accept her offer and then just remember to be discrete.  Unless she does something in discrete or otherwise alarming, there should be no problem.  LE is very unlikely to go to this much trouble to bust one guy.

We did have that quick cup of coffee this evening.  She's a doll and a delight to be with.  Her limited availability and my schedule for the next few days pushes our first real encounter out a bit.  The comments, suggestions and insights you all shared were very helpful.  MN TER is a great group of folks, both guys and gals.  Thanks for talking me down from my uptight paranoia.