Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (6,619)	$ 10,803	$ 49,630	$ 25,295
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $323 and $(9) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $0 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011	(588)	(1,913)	2,000	(1,913)
Add: reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income (loss)	173	0	212	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ (7,034)	$ 8,890	$ 51,842	$ 23,382