Can a pointer be null and if so can it be tested for?

I am following all the reasoning and I agree testing for a positive condition id the option but this business of syntax ..
If(MyPointer) OR If(MyPointer != NULL)

I assume that they are functionally the same once compiled, and I want to be consistent when coding ....
Any chance we could have a consensus,
I haven't a clue so will go with the short version given no other selection criteria.

Thanks
folks