A more suitable partner in crime (7)
I believe the answer is:
abetter
'partner in crime' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
'a more suitable' is the wordplay.
'more suitable' becomes 'better'.
'a'+'better'='ABETTER'
(Other definitions for abetter that I've seen before include "who gives encouragement?" , "accessory" , "Criminal's assistant" , "Partner in crime; tree bat (anag.)" , "An accomplice" .)