ABSTRACT
'Swatantra-Clinic' at NIMHANS, India, provides mental healthcare to vulnerable children. This study describes the clinical profile, vulnerability and protective factors of 77 adolescents in conflict with the law (CICL). 90.9â¯% (n=70) reported Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), 58.4â¯% (n=45) had school-related difficulties, 68.9â¯% (n=53) reported child labour experiences, 64.9â¯% (n=50) had deviant peer associations, and 40â¯% (n=31) experimented with substance use. Despite vulnerabilities, 72.7â¯%(n=56) had a positive future orientation, 45.5â¯% (n=35) had supportive caregivers and exhibited prosocial skills. only 12â¯% (n=9) followed up on recommendations, highlighting the need for collaborative and transdisciplinary care to promote CICL rehabilitation and community integration.