Subsequent Event (Notes)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2013

Subsequent Event [Abstract]

Subsequent Events [Text Block]

Subsequent Event:

On May 2, 2013, Sterling announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement with Commerce National Bank ("CNB"), to acquire CNB for cash consideration of $42.9 million. The transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors of Sterling and CNB, is expected to provide a significant enhancement to Sterling’s current operations in Southern California. The transaction is subject to approval by CNB shareholders and bank regulatory agencies, and other customary conditions of closing. It is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2013. As of March 31, 2013, CNB had assets of approximately $242.7 million, loans of $146.3 million, deposits of $211.4 million, and shareholders’ equity of $30.1 million.