I've been reading up trying to make an informed choice. However there are not a lot of providers in my area that are rated at TER.  

I want to contact some one on backpage, but I only have one parionoid concern, police...  Other than going with a highly rated provider, how can I minimize my run in with the police?  I know how to prevent all other dangers but the idea of being arressed is the only thing stoping me.

Any tips and help would be great

Since you don't have a lot of gals that are TER reviewed, what about other boards that offer similar services in your area (since you posted as an alias we have no idea where you might be located to offer up suggestions).

Other concerns should be B&S (bait and switch), ROB (robber) and thugs that the gal may be using (sometimes referred to as pimps) to help you part with your $$$ for nothing in return.

Frankly given some of the other issues out there, LE may very well be your friend if you're not seeing this whole picture.

Try contacting other reviewers (you can't PM with an alias) about other reviewing sources in your neighborhood.

And be very, very careful using a BP as your "screening tool".  It seems that doesn't usually turn out too well!

You might have to expand your range. There aren't a lot of well reviewed providers near me, either. I've had drive over an hour for most of my dates. Sorry if that's painfully obvious, but if you want it bad enough...

In case there is a local board you've missed, try googling "escort reviews" plus the name of the nearest city of any size. It'll probably turn up some worthless links, but you never know. Also google "backpage advertiser reviews". That's sure to turn up a national board I won't name here with hundreds of local forums that can have some good local tips, usually focusing on the low end.

To get informed on the LE risks, read up on TER's Legal Corner board. Threads cover avoiding LE stings and what to do if you are stopped by police. (STFU!) It has helped me to better understand what I should and should not be worried about. (Famous last words.)

But if that can't happen for some reason, at least stick to these guidelines:

1.  If the provider attempts to discuss specific sex acts and/or money over the phone or email, break off contact.

2.  If the place she wants to meet you at is one of those cheap motels where the room door opens to the parking lot, pass.  

3.  Stick to outcalls as LE avoids outcalls for a bust.

4.  If she is covered with donuts crumbs when she shows up, shut the door.

OK, the last one is for laughs, but you get the idea.

Use your local boards to inquire about someone you are interested in and see if anyone will vouch for her.

Good luck and play safe.

Question about #1:

You say to break it off if a provider even mentions money on the phone, but that's standard procedure for a lot of providers who don't list their price online. Better to hear the money amount on the phone than to ask about it in person.

Agreed never to say what the donation is for, or to talk about sex.

I am a first timer and currently trying to start contact with a very well reviewed provider (http://www.theeroticreview.com/reviews/show.asp?ID=159725&page=1) we discussed how much it would be for an hour of her time over the phone, was that illegal?  no mention of sex acts. Is this a red flag? I mean how are you supposed to know how much she costs if you can't do it over phone or email before seeing her.