The presented work is the first comprehensive study of the problem of combating contract killings, its essence and content. The author has made an attempt to disclose and systematize the methods and mechanism of “contract” murders, objects and subjects of such crimes. The author focused the reader's attention on the organizational and legal issues of interaction between the investigator and the body of inquiry and the features of the initial stage of solving murders committed on order. The textbook is addressed to students of higher and secondary specialized educational institutions of law, students, graduate students, a wide range of readers, and practical employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and prosecutors involved in the process of solving crimes.