Yahoo's new Local search design noticeably resembles Google's existing Local format for businesses like law firms. Regardless of the flattery and ethics of Yahoo's development, the similarities will happily allow firms to expand their web presence across a new network in an familiar way.

Yahoo has announced that its Local search results are designed to offer users detailed information about a business when they click on it in a results list. Whether users are searching for a local bookstore, pharmacy or law firm, Yahoo Local displays snapshots of businesses beside a recently updated Yahoo Maps design.

Viewers are presented with an overview of each company, which includes parking suggestions, pictures, hours of business and more. The noticeably larger map is designed to remain on the sidebar as a user navigates the results.

At the moment, the new Local search results are only available in the United States.

Upgrading your Yahoo Local Profile

To get started, you may want to check out Yahoo's enhanced listings. For $9.95 - $29.95/month, you can buy your firm some extra features and exposure on Yahoo's network.

Next, check if your law firm is already listed on Yahoo's local network. If so, claim the listing by confirming your office phone number, email, website address and other pertinent details. If there is room to add more information, make sure to do so to maximize your Yahoo Local results. If your firm is not yet listed, you can use Yahoo's Maps and Local sites to add a new entry.