Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ 15,711	$ 6,619	$ 23,101	$ (49,630)
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 nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, and $323 and ($9) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively	149	(588)	(194)	2,000
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income	(274)	173	577	212
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(15,836)	(7,034)	(22,718)	51,842
Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0	0	0	0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (15,836)	$ (7,034)	$ (22,718)	$ 51,842