Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Impact of revision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (10,611)	$ 7,082	$ (40,573)	$ (9,965)	$ (115,910)	$ (27,310)	$ (3,686)	$ (13,130)	$ (54,067)	$ (160,036)	$ (66,029)
Net Loss Available to Common Stockholders, Basic and Diluted									$ (54,067)	$ (160,730)	$ (66,755)