Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Other comprehensive loss:
Net Loss, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ (13,116)	$ (13,480)	$ (37,686)	$ (8,367)
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of tax of $0	(373)	(338)	(849)	1,359
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net loss	565	(3)	1,012	(851)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(12,924)	(13,821)	(37,523)	(7,859)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(167)	(977)	(316)	(977)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (12,757)	$ (12,844)	$ (37,207)	$ (6,882)