Crossword Genius

Errant mate returned to confess (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lapsing

'errant' is the definition.
(both can mean slipping or straying)

'mate returned to confess' is the wordplay.
'mate' becomes 'pal' (I've seen this before).
'returned' is a reversal indicator.
'to confess' becomes 'sing' (I've seen this before).
'pal' written backwards gives 'lap'.
'lap'+'sing'='LAPSING'

(Other definitions for lapsing that I've seen before include "Reverting" , "Backsliding" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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