Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (12,503)	$ 6,321	$ (7,390)	$ 56,249
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $0 and $0 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013, and $64 and ($332) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012	(338)	158	1,359	2,588
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income (loss)	(3)	39	(851)	39
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ (12,844)	$ 6,518	$ (6,882)	$ 58,876