The solicitor acting on behalf of the Omagh Victims Legal Trust has issued a formal statement specifying the reasons behind the families' civil action against members of the "Real IRA" suspected of involvement in the Omagh bombing.
Mr Jason McCue, of the London-based legal firm Henry Hepworth, described the High Court writs served against the five suspects as an attempt to make the "Real IRA" accountable.
"This statement, on behalf of the plaintiffs, will be brief. We intend to do our talking in the civil court.
"Yesterday [Friday], families of the victims of the Omagh bomb issued a writ against the "Real IRA". They have thereby made history: this is the first time in the world that such an organisation will be sued in the civil courts. This claim is unprecedented. This groundbreaking action seeks justice.
"The families have undertaken this brave course of action out of respect for their loved ones - nothing more, nothing less. I am proud and privileged to represent them. The families represent the good people of Northern Ireland. They have different religions, nationalities and politics."
It continued: "A team of experienced lawyers and counsel has considered this action very carefully. The families have a strong legal case. The "Real IRA" claimed responsibility for the bomb. This action is about making it accountable. Further admissible evidence, in particular from the general public, may well expand this action. This is only the beginning."