Alice, I agree! Cell phone in the proper time and place.

Kendall, I agree. I think I might know that judge.

Greg, I do NOT agree. Judge was well within his provenance. His court, his rules. Cell phones in court do not belong. In the local Federal court you are warned that if you are carrying one, it will be confiscated. Also knitting needles, scissors, pocket knices, lap tops, etc etc etc. Just don't muckle about with the courts. Anywhere. Anytime.