Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 8,245	$ 3,848	$ (10,833)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in net actuarial gain (loss)	2,268	37	(1,468)
Tax effect on change in net actuarial gain (loss)	(794)	(13)	514
Unrealized holding gains arising during the period	22,094	4,388	191
Tax effect on unrealized holding gains arising during the period	(7,733)	(1,536)	(67)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (loss)	(10,540)	(2,189)	(3,633)
Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (loss)	3,689	766	1,272
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	8,984	1,453	(3,191)
Comprehensive income (loss)	17,229	5,301	(14,024)
Less: comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest		324	58
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	$ 17,229	$ 4,977	$ (14,082)