Having visited more than 50 courts (federal and state) across the county, let me add a few details on procedure.

1. Shoes - most courts I have visited don't require shoe removal. The only one I remember which currently (meaning within the past 6 months - I don't visit daily) requires shoe removal is Federal Court in Los Angeles. I don't think it is required for Santa Ana (also part of the Central District), but my memory is vague on that.

2. Cell Phone - the rules change pretty often. For a period of time, years ago, Federal Court in LA didn't allow any cell phones (put in a locker by the door with a claim check). For a period of time the Federal Court in Boston didn't allow any electronics (including cameras and cell phones) without a court order. The funniest I have seen? I was in NY Bankruptcy Court (Bowling Green) for a big bankruptcy case. The lead counsel on the case, a NY lawyer, wasn't allowed to bring his cell phone because the business card, from his law firm, didn't say "attorney." As visiting counsel from CA I got to bring mine because I carry my Bar Card. I also saw an attorney, who was arguing a motion before a judge in Bankruptcy court (LA), not only have his phone ring while he was arguing a motion, but he actually answered the phone and talked for a few seconds. (The Judge took his phone and made him wait 2 hours to get it back.)