Crossword Genius

Pointless trial attorney has abandoned before end of day (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

empty

'pointless' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'trial attorney has abandoned before end of day' is the wordplay.
'trial' becomes 'attempt'.
'attorney' becomes 'att' (abbreviation for attorney).
'has abandoned' is a deletion indicator.
'before end of day' becomes 'y' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'attempt' with 'att' taken away is 'empt'.
'empt'+'y'='EMPTY'

(Other definitions for empty that I've seen before include "Void; vacant" , "'. . . . . vessels make the most sound'" , "worthless" , "Loneliness parents feel when their children leave home" , "Cleared out" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.