I prefer the hold-the-phone-to-the-ear method. I don't talk long and I'm quite comfortable with my ability to talk and drive, just as I am confident of my ability to walk and chew gum simultaneously. I do have a hands free speakerphone adapter that works great while I'm typing though!
I will take criticism for using my phone while driving ONLY from those who have never done ANY of the following while driving:
*Applied makeup
*Ate anything
*Drank anything
*Smoked anything
*Changed a tape
*changed a CD
*Made any type of adjustment to their car radio
*Read a map
*read instructions
*checked out a hot chick (or guy for you ladies)
*turned around to talk to or yell at their kids
*had an arguement with a spouse or significant other
*put on or removed an article of clothing (remember John Candy in Planes, trains, and automobiles?)
*stared at address #'s instead of the road because they were looking for a house #
*Scratched an itch
*blew their nose
*basically did anything that could distract you for a second or more
I could go on and on, but I'm tired and I'm sure you all get the idea.
My point is, anyone who is not capable of talking on a phone while driving, is probably someone who does not take their driving responsibility very seriously and is probably a threat whether they talk on a phone or not.
That hands-free law was a big debate here in Maryland a while back. Fortunately it was beat down and thrown out.
No matter how many laws are on the books, they can never replace responsibility and common sense.