Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ 5,113	$ 49,928
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $0 for the three months ended March 31, 2013, and $396 for the three months ended March 31, 2012	1,697	2,430
Add: reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income (loss)	(848)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 5,962	$ 52,358