Crossword Genius

Shoot up at court before campaign (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lobby

'campaign' is the definition.
(as in lobbying for a political goal)

'shoot up at court before' is the wordplay.
'shoot up at court' becomes 'lob' (as in lobbing in tennis).
'before' becomes 'by'.
'lob'+'by'='LOBBY'

(Other definitions for lobby that I've seen before include "Seek to influence (a legislator)" , "Entrance room" , "Press" , "Small hall" , "Hallway; seek to influence" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app