Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Other comprehensive loss:
Net Loss, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ (12,835)	$ (15,486)	$ (50,521)	$ (23,853)
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of tax of $0	(347)	149	(1,196)	(194)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net loss	350	(274)	1,362	577
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(12,832)	(15,611)	(50,355)	(23,470)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(420)	225	(736)	(752)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (12,412)	$ (15,836)	$ (49,619)	$ (22,718)