Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (56,434)	$ 59,453	$ 21,106
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized loss on short-term investments	26	657	(1,830)
Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation	0	7	0
Add: reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income	193	277	0
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(56,215)	60,394	19,276
Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	$ (56,215)	$ 60,394	$ 19,276