An independent public inquiry into the death of the Lurgan-based lawyer Rosemary Nelson has opened in Craigavon, Co Armagh.
Ms Nelson died in March 1999 after a bomb attached to her car exploded near her home.
The inquiry into her death is being presided over by the retired England and Wales High Court judge, Michael Morland.
Judge Morland said the aim of the three-member team is to search for the truth impartially and fairly. He said they would not allow the inquiry to become a political tool.
The inquiry was recommended by retired Canadian Judge Peter Cory, and was set up to look into the circumstances surrounding Ms Nelson's murder and allegations of collusion in relation to her death.
The other inquiry members are former Chief Constable of South Wales Police, Anthony Burden, and former Chairman of the Board of the UK Customs and Excise, Valerie Strachan.
Full hearings are not expected to start until early next year, when more than 100 witnesses will be called.
An inquiry spokesman said they were currently bringing together relevant documents, identifying and tracking down additional material and deciding which people will be asked to provide statements and give oral evidence.
The Northern Secretary, Paul Murphy, announced the establishment of the probe last November. It has been set up under Section 44 of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 1998.
Despite a very substantial police investigation, nobody has ever been charged with Ms Nelson's murder.
