Crossword Genius

Bad character not at home as a rule (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

outlaw

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'bad character' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'not at home as a rule' is the wordplay.
'not at home' becomes 'out' (out can mean away from home).
'as a rule' becomes 'law' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'out'+'law'='OUTLAW'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for outlaw that I've seen before include "Ban, prohibit by legislation" , "Robin Hood figure?" , "Wanted criminal" , "Josey Wales was one" , "Ban - bandit" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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