Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Statements of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ 59,453	$ 21,106	$ 34,051
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized loss on short-term investments	657	(1,830)	0
Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation	7	0	0
Add: reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income	277	0	0
Comprehensive income	$ 60,394	$ 19,276	$ 34,051