Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Power of Attorney? 
A "power of attorney" is a legal document by which you (the "principal") give certain powers to someone else.  This person becomes your "attorney-in-fact" (the "agent"); authorized to act for you, in your place.

What are wills?
A last will and testament is a legal document that explains what a person wants to do with his property and assets after he dies.

What is probate?
Probate is a court proceeding to oversee the settlement of a person's debts and distribution of their property to heirs, also called beneficiaries. Probate courts are found in every state.

How much do wills cost?
The cost for drafting a will can vary for many reasons, including:

  • The nature of a person's bequests
  • Where a person lives
  • The complexity of a person's estate


What is the difference between trademarks, patents, and copyrights?
A Trademarks protect brands such as company or product names, logos, and distinctive coloring.  Patents, on the other hand, protect inventions such as machines, processes, products and chemical compositions that are used to make or comprise a part of the product.  Copyrights protect original works of authorship such as writings, computer programs, and works of art.

The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Use of and access to this Web site or any of the e-mail links contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between Carolyn Christoffersen, Attorney at Law and the user or browser. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney.