Hallmark Financial Services (HALL) 10-Q 7 Nov 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Nov. 07, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'HALLMARK FINANCIAL SERVICES INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000819913	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'
Trading Symbol	'hall	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	19,263,457
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS	'	'
Debt securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost: $395,860 in 2013 and $397,800 in 2012)	$396,647	$401,435
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost: $24,033 in 2013 and $31,502 in 2012)	45,940	43,925
Total investments	442,587	445,360
Cash and cash equivalents	151,698	85,145
Restricted cash	8,700	8,707
Ceded unearned premiums	31,731	22,411
Premiums receivable	77,749	66,683
Accounts receivable	3,209	3,110
Receivable for securities	19	3
Reinsurance recoverable	61,193	51,970
Deferred policy acquisition costs	26,943	24,911
Goodwill	44,695	44,695
Intangible assets, net	20,647	23,068
Deferred federal income taxes, net	'	1,940
Prepaid expenses	1,611	1,480
Other assets	8,935	10,985
Total assets	879,717	790,468
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	'	'
Revolving credit facility payable	1,473	1,473
Subordinated debt securities	56,702	56,702
Reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	360,248	313,416
Unearned premiums	191,367	162,502
Reinsurance balances payable	11,862	7,330
Pension liability	3,334	3,685
Payable for securities	6,380	'
Deferred federal income taxes, net	319	'
Federal income tax payable	1,075	1,518
Accounts payable and other accrued expenses	16,879	23,305
Total liabilities	649,639	569,931
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)	'	'
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock, $.18 par value, authorized 33,333,333; issued 20,872,831 shares in 2013 and 2012	3,757	3,757
Additional paid-in capital	122,720	122,475
Retained earnings	102,781	97,964
Accumulated other comprehensive income	12,378	7,899
Treasury stock (1,609,374 shares in 2013 and 2012), at cost	-11,558	-11,558
Total stockholders' equity	230,078	220,537
Liabilities and equity, total	$879,717	$790,468

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical [Abstract]	'	'
Debt securities, available-for-sale, cost (in dollars)	$395,860	$397,800
Equity securities, available for sale, cost (in dollars)	$24,033	$31,502
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.18	$0.18
Common stock, authorized shares	33,333,333	33,333,333
Common stock, issued shares	20,872,831	20,872,831
Treasury stock, shares	1,609,374	1,609,374

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Gross premiums written	$123,664	$99,448	$351,278	$297,658
Ceded premiums written	-20,775	-14,443	-54,948	-42,554
Net premiums written	102,889	85,005	296,330	255,104
Change in unearned premiums	-5,437	-4,524	-19,546	-19,166
Net premiums earned	97,452	80,481	276,784	235,938
Investment income, net of expenses	2,965	3,795	9,871	11,573
Net realized gains	6,950	982	9,723	1,854
Finance charges	1,484	1,374	4,396	4,538
Commission and fees	-251	-1,029	169	-1,033
Other income	13	17	110	307
Total revenues	108,613	85,620	301,053	253,177
Losses and loss adjustment expenses	68,158	52,839	204,955	168,859
Other operating expenses	29,139	25,726	83,911	77,077
Interest expense	1,150	1,137	3,449	3,464
Amortization of intangible assets	694	897	2,420	2,690
Total expenses	99,141	80,599	294,735	252,090
Income before tax	9,472	5,021	6,318	1,087
Income tax expense (benefit)	3,198	1,350	1,501	-978
Net income	6,274	3,671	4,817	2,065
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest	'	258	'	324
Net income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	$6,274	$3,413	$4,817	$1,741
Net income per share attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. common stockholders:	'	'	'	'
Basic	$0.33	$0.18	$0.25	$0.09
Diluted	$0.32	$0.18	$0.25	$0.09

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$6,274	$3,671	$4,817	$2,065
Other comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Change in net actuarial gain	123	120	371	362
Tax effect on change in net actuarial gain	-43	-42	-130	-127
Unrealized holding gains arising during the period	4,721	4,541	16,243	4,560
Tax effect on unrealized holding gains arising during the period	-1,652	-1,589	-5,685	-1,596
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income	-6,950	-926	-9,723	-2,044
Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income	2,433	324	3,403	715
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-1,368	2,428	4,479	1,870
Comprehensive income	4,906	6,099	9,296	3,935
Less: comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest	'	258	'	324
Comprehensive income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	$4,906	$5,841	$9,296	$3,611

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Total
In Thousands
Balance at Jun. 30, 2012	$3,757	$122,669	$92,768	$5,888	($11,558)	'
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest	'	-321	'	'	'	'
Equity based compensation	'	64	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	'	'	3,413	'	'	3,413
Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax	'	'	'	78	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains arising during period, net of tax	'	'	'	2,952	'	'
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax	'	'	'	-602	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	3,757	122,412	96,181	8,316	-11,558	219,108
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	3,757	122,487	94,440	6,446	-11,558	'
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest	'	-392	'	'	'	'
Equity based compensation	'	317	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	'	'	1,741	'	'	1,741
Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax	'	'	'	235	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains arising during period, net of tax	'	'	'	2,964	'	'
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax	'	'	'	-1,329	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	3,757	122,412	96,181	8,316	-11,558	219,108
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	3,757	122,475	97,964	7,899	-11,558	220,537
Equity based compensation	'	245	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	'	'	4,817	'	'	4,817
Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax	'	'	'	241	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains arising during period, net of tax	'	'	'	10,558	'	'
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax	'	'	'	-6,320	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	3,757	122,720	102,781	12,378	-11,558	230,078
Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	3,757	122,611	96,507	13,746	-11,558	'
Equity based compensation	'	109	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.	'	'	6,274	'	'	6,274
Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax	'	'	'	80	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains arising during period, net of tax	'	'	'	3,069	'	'
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax	'	'	'	-4,517	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$3,757	$122,720	$102,781	$12,378	($11,558)	$230,078

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net income	$4,817	$2,065
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	3,691	3,603
Deferred federal income taxes	-268	-2,241
Net realized gains	-9,723	-1,854
Share-based payments expense	245	317
Change in ceded unearned premiums	-9,320	-2,524
Change in premiums receivable	-11,066	-15,669
Change in accounts receivable	-99	586
Change in deferred policy acquisition costs	-2,032	-3,854
Change in unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	46,832	18,662
Change in unearned premiums	28,865	21,690
Change in reinsurance recoverable	-9,223	-7,375
Change in reinsurance balances payable	4,532	2,837
Change in current federal income tax (payable) recoverable	-443	6,915
Change in all other liabilities	-6,777	-1,180
Change in all other assets	13,489	6,209
Net cash provided by operating activities	53,520	28,187
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of property and equipment	-920	-366
Net transfers from restricted cash	7	1,126
Purchases of investment securities	-139,791	-103,434
Maturities, sales and redemptions of investment securities	153,737	110,772
Net cash provided by investing activities	13,033	8,098
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Activity under revolving credit facility, net	'	-2,577
Payment of contingent consideration	'	-350
Distribution to non-controlling interest	'	-147
Net cash used in financing activities	'	-3,074
Increase in cash and cash equivalents	66,553	33,211
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	85,145	74,471
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	151,698	107,682
Supplemental cash flow information:	'	'
Interest paid	3,439	3,464
Income taxes paid (recovered)	2,212	-5,951
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing activities:	'	'
Change in receivable for securities related to investment disposals that settled after the balance sheet date	16	-1,566
Change in payable for securities related to investment purchases that settled after the balance sheet date	$6,380	$6,546

General

General	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
General [Abstract]	'
General	'
	1. General
	Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. (“Hallmark” and, together with subsidiaries, “we,” “us” or “our”) is an insurance holding company engaged in the sale of property/casualty insurance products to businesses and individuals.  Our business involves marketing, distributing, underwriting and servicing our insurance products, as well as providing other insurance related services.
	We pursue our business activities through subsidiaries whose operations are organized into five business units that are supported by our insurance company subsidiaries.  Our Standard Commercial P&C business unit handles commercial insurance products and services in the standard market. Our Workers Compensation business unit specializes in small and middle market workers compensation business. Our E&S Commercial business unit handles primarily commercial insurance products and services in the excess and surplus lines market. Our Hallmark Select business unit offers (i) general aviation insurance products and services, (ii) low and middle market commercial umbrella and excess liability insurance, on both an admitted and non-admitted basis, focusing primarily on trucking, specialty automobile and non-fleet automobile coverage, and (iii) medical professional liability insurance products and services. Our Hallmark Select business unit is the combination of our operations previously known as our General Aviation business unit, our Excess & Umbrella business unit and the medical professional liability business handled by our E&S Commercial business unit. Our Personal Lines business unit handles personal insurance products and services.  Our insurance company subsidiaries supporting these operating units are American Hallmark Insurance Company of Texas (“AHIC”), Hallmark Insurance Company (“HIC”), Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company (“HSIC”), Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Company (“HCM”), Hallmark National Insurance Company (“HNIC”) and Texas Builders Insurance Company (“TBIC”).
	These five business units are segregated into three reportable industry segments for financial accounting purposes.  The Standard Commercial Segment includes the Standard Commercial P&C business unit and the Workers Compensation business unit.  The Specialty Commercial Segment includes the E&S Commercial business unit and the Hallmark Select business unit, as well as certain specialty risk programs (“Specialty Programs”) which are managed by Hallmark.  The Personal Segment consists solely of the Personal Lines business unit.

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	2. Basis of Presentation
	Our unaudited consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and include our accounts and the accounts of our subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial reporting.  These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.
	The interim financial data as of September 30, 2013 and 2012 is unaudited.  However, in the opinion of management, the interim data includes all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods.  The results of operations for the period ended September 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year.
	Business Combinations
	We account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting pursuant to Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, “Business Combinations.” The base cash purchase price plus the estimated fair value of any non-cash or contingent consideration given for an acquired business is allocated to the assets acquired (including identified intangible assets) and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair values of such assets and liabilities. The excess of the fair value of the total consideration given for an acquired business over the aggregate net fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Contingent consideration is recognized as a liability at fair value as of the acquisition date with subsequent fair value adjustments recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. The valuation of contingent consideration requires assumptions regarding anticipated cash flows, probabilities of cash flows, discount rates and other factors. Significant judgment is employed in determining the propriety of these assumptions as of the acquisition date and for each subsequent period. Accordingly, future business and economic conditions, as well as changes in any of the assumptions, can materially impact the amount of contingent consideration expense we record in any given period. Indirect and general expenses related to business combinations are expensed as incurred.
	Income Taxes
	We file a consolidated federal income tax return.  Deferred federal income taxes reflect the future tax consequences of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year end.  Deferred taxes are recognized using the liability method, whereby tax rates are applied to cumulative temporary differences based on when and how they are expected to affect the tax return. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for tax rate changes in effect for the year in which these temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.
	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements
	Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities and our disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, as well as our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments” under Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 for information on accounting policies that we consider critical in preparing our consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Fair value estimates are made at a point in time, based on relevant market data as well as the best information available about the financial instruments.  Fair value estimates for financial instruments for which no or limited observable market data is available are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, credit and interest rate risk.  These estimates involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision.  As a result, such calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument.  In addition, changes in the underlying assumptions used in the fair value measurement technique, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect these fair value estimates.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents:  The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.
	Restricted Cash:  The carrying amount for restricted cash reported in the balance sheet approximates the fair value.
	Revolving Credit Facility Payable:  The carrying value of our bank revolving credit facility of $1.5 million approximates the fair value based on the current interest rate.
	Subordinated Debt Securities:  Our trust preferred securities have a carried value of $56.7 million and a fair value of $51.9 million as of September 30, 2013.  The fair value of our trust preferred securities is based on discounted cash flows using a current yield to maturity of 8.0%, which is based on similar issues to discount future cash flows.  Our trust preferred securities would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value.
	For reinsurance balances,  premiums receivable, federal income tax payable, other assets and other liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of such financial instruments.
	Variable Interest Entities
	On June 21, 2005, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust I (“Trust I”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $30.0 million in trust preferred securities.  Trust I used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $30.9 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark.  The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust I, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust I.
	On August 23, 2007, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust II (“Trust II”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $25.0 million in trust preferred securities.  Trust II used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $25.8 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark.  The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust II, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust II.
	We evaluate on an ongoing basis our investments in Trust I and II (collectively the “Trusts”) and we do not have a variable interest in the Trusts.  Therefore, the Trusts are not included in our consolidated financial statements.
	We are also involved in the normal course of business with variable interest entities (“VIE’s”) primarily as a passive investor in mortgage-backed securities and certain collateralized corporate bank loans issued by third party VIE’s.  The maximum exposure to loss with respect to these investments is the investment carrying values included in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
	In January 2013, we adopted new guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) related to reporting and disclosure requirements about changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances and reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income.  The new guidance is effective prospectively for fiscal and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012.  The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations but did require additional disclosures.

Business_Combinations

Business Combinations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combinations	'
	3. Business Combinations
	Effective August 29, 2008, we acquired 80% of the issued and outstanding membership interests in Heath XS, LLC and Hardscrabble Data Solutions, LLC for consideration of $15.0 million. In connection with the acquisition, we executed an operating agreement for each company. The operating agreements granted us the right to purchase the remaining 20% membership interests in the companies and granted an affiliate of the seller the right to require us to purchase such remaining membership interests. We exercised our call option effective September 30, 2012 and acquired the remaining 20% membership interests in the companies for $1.7 million.
	Effective December 31, 2010, we acquired all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of HNIC for initial consideration of $14.0 million paid in cash on January 3, 2011 to State Auto Financial Corporation, Inc. In addition, an earnout of up to $2.0 million is payable to the seller quarterly in an amount equal to 2% of gross collected premiums on new or renewal personal lines insurance policies written by HNIC agents during the three years following closing. HNIC is an Ohio domiciled insurance company that writes non-standard personal automobile policies through independent agents in 21 states.
	Effective July 1, 2011, we acquired all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of TBIC Holding Corporation (“TBIC Holding”) for initial consideration of $1.6 million paid in cash on July 1, 2011. In addition, a holdback purchase price of $350 thousand was paid during the third quarter of 2012.  A contingent purchase price of up to $3.0 million may become payable following 16 full calendar quarters after closing based upon a formula contained in the acquisition agreement.

Fair_Value

Fair Value	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Fair Value	'
	4. Fair Value
	ASC 820 defines fair value, establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. ASC 820, among other things, requires us to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. In addition, ASC 820 precludes the use of block discounts when measuring the fair value of instruments traded in an active market, which were previously applied to large holdings of publicly traded equity securities.
	We determine the fair value of our financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC 820.  In accordance with ASC 820, we utilize the following fair value hierarchy:
	·	Level 1: quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;
	·	Level 2: inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, inputs of identical assets for less active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the instrument; and
	·	Level 3: inputs to the valuation methodology that are unobservable for the asset or liability.
	This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available.
	Under ASC 820, we determine fair value based on the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.  It is our policy to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when developing fair value measurements, in accordance with the fair value hierarchy described above.  Fair value measurements for assets and liabilities where there exists limited or no observable market data are calculated based upon our pricing policy, the economic and competitive environment, the characteristics of the asset or liability and other factors as appropriate.  These estimated fair values may not be realized upon actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset or liability.
	Where quoted prices are available on active exchanges for identical instruments, investment securities are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.  Level 1 investment securities include common and preferred stock.
	Level 2 investment securities include corporate bonds, collateralized corporate bank loans, municipal bonds, and U.S. Treasury securities for which quoted prices are not available on active exchanges for identical instruments.  We use third party pricing services to determine fair values for each Level 2 investment security in all asset classes.  Since quoted prices in active markets for identical assets are not available, these prices are determined using observable market information such as quotes from less active markets and/or quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics, among other things. We have reviewed the processes used by the pricing services and have determined that they result in fair values consistent with the requirements of  ASC 820 for Level 2 investment securities. In addition, using the prices received for the securities from the third party pricing services, we compare a sample of the prices against additional sources.  We have not adjusted any prices received from the third party pricing services.
	In cases where there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to the valuation, investment securities are classified within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.  Level 3 investments are valued based on the best available data in order to approximate fair value.  This data may be internally developed and consider risk premiums that a market participant would require.  Investment securities classified within Level 3 include other less liquid investment securities.
	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities during the periods presented.
	The following table presents for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, our assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
		As of September 30, 2013
		Quoted Prices in		Other
		Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable
		Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs
		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Total
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government	$              -		$		$        -		$
				34,114				34,114
	Corporate bonds	-		59,393		-		59,393
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	-		118,852		700		119,552
	Municipal bonds	-		134,906		19,590		154,496
	Mortgage-backed	-		29,092		-		29,092
	Total debt securities	-		376,357		20,290		396,647
	Financial services	7,690		-		-		7,690
	All other	38,250		-		-		38,250
	Total equity securities	45,940		-		-		45,940
	Total debt and equity securities	$		$		$		$
		45,940		376,357		20,290		442,587
		As of December 31, 2012
		Quoted Prices in	Other
		Active Markets for	Observable		Unobservable
		Identical Assets	Inputs		Inputs
		(Level 1)	(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Total
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government	$              -	$		$          -		$
			40,061				40,061
	Corporate bonds	-	81,547		-		81,547
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	-	105,463		908		106,371
	Municipal bonds	-	144,972		18,760		163,732
	Mortgage-backed	-	9,724		-		9,724
	Total debt securities	-	381,767		19,668		401,435
	Financial services	14,887	-		-		14,887
	All other	29,038	-		-		29,038
	Total equity securities	43,925	-		-		43,925
	Total debt and equity securities	$	$          381,767		$		$
		43,925			19,668		445,360
	Due to significant unobservable inputs into the valuation model for certain municipal bonds and a collateralized corporate bank loan in illiquid markets, we classified these investments as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.  We used an income approach in order to derive an estimated fair value of the municipal bonds classified as Level 3, which included inputs such as expected holding period, benchmark swap rate, benchmark discount rate and a discount rate premium for illiquidity.  The fair value of the collateralized corporate bank loan classified as Level 3 is based on discounted cash flows using current yield to maturity of 9.8%, which is based on the relevant spread over LIBOR for this particular loan to discount future cash flows.  Significant changes in the unobservable inputs in the fair value measurement of our municipal bonds and collateralized corporate bank loan could result in a significant change in the fair value measurement.
	The following table summarizes the changes in fair value for all financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	Beginning balance as of January 1, 2013	$
		19,668
	Sales	-
	Settlements	-302
	Purchases	-
	Issuances	-
	Total realized/unrealized gains included in net income	-
	Net gains included in other comprehensive income	924
	Transfers into Level 3	-
	Transfers out of Level 3	-
	Ending balance as of September 30, 2013	$
		20,290
Beginning balance as of January 1, 2012	$
	20,608
Sales	-
Settlements	-307
Purchases	-
Issuances	-
Total realized/unrealized gains included in net income	-
Net losses included in other comprehensive income	-530
Transfers into Level 3	-
Transfers out of Level 3	-
Ending balance as of September 30, 2012	$
	19,771

Investments

Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	5. Investments
	The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt and equity securities by category is as follows (in thousands):
						Gross		Gross
				Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized	Fair
	As of September 30, 2013			Cost		Gains		Losses	Value
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$		$		$                  -	$
				34,083		31			34,114
	Corporate bonds			58,633		1,285		-525	59,393
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			119,626		475		-549	119,552
	Municipal bonds			153,974		2,701		-2,179	154,496
	Mortgage-backed			29,544		339		-791	29,092
	Total debt securities			395,860		4,831		-4,044	396,647
	Financial services			4,705		2,985		-	7,690
	All other			19,328		19,644		-722	38,250
	Total equity securities			24,033		22,629		-722	45,940
	Total debt and equity securities			$		$		$	$
				419,893		27,460		-4,766	442,587
	As of December 31, 2012
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$		$		$	$
				40,050		14		-3	40,061
	Corporate bonds			79,516		2,794		-763	81,547
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			106,093		1,021		-743	106,371
	Municipal bonds			162,479		4,023		-2,770	163,732
	Mortgage-backed			9,662		97		-35	9,724
	Total debt securities			397,800		7,949		-4,314	401,435
	Financial services			11,008		3,880		-1	14,887
	All other			20,494		9,058		-514	29,038
	Total equity securities			31,502		12,938		-515	43,925
	Total debt and equity securities			$		$		$	$
				429,302		20,887		-4,829	445,360
	Major categories of net realized gains (losses) on investments are summarized as follows (in thousands):
				Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
				30-Sep				30-Sep
				2013		2012		2013	2012
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$             -		$         -		$       -	$      -
	Corporate bonds			21		159		846	9
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			44		93		316	229
	Municipal bonds			-50		-50		-11	-294
	Equity securities-financial services			6,935		8		7,579	78
	Equity securities-all other			-		772		993	2,078
	Gain on investments			6,950		982		9,723	2,100
	Other-than-temporary impairments			-		-		-	-246
	Net realized gains			$		$         982		$	$  1,854
				6,950				9,723
	We realized gross gains on investments of $7.1 million and $1.1 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively and $9.9 million and $2.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We realized gross losses on investments of $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.  We realized gross losses on investments of $0.2 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. We recorded proceeds from the sale of investment securities of $12.5 million and $3.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $30.2 million and $9.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Realized investment gains and losses are recognized in operations on the specific identification method.
	The following schedules summarize the gross unrealized losses showing the length of time that investments have been continuously in an unrealized loss position as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
		As of September 30, 2013
		12 months or less		Longer than 12 months			Total
			Unrealized		Unrealized			Unrealized
		Fair Value	Losses	Fair Value	Losses		Fair Value	Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations
	of U.S. Government	$                   -	$                -	$                -	$                 -		$                  -	$                  -
	Corporate bonds	12,694	-156	3,048	-369		15,742	-525
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	48,926	-368	6,915	-181		55,841	-549
	Municipal bonds	28,861	-488	38,953	-1,691		67,814	-2,179
	Mortgage-backed	14,328	-788	107	-3		14,435	-791
	Total debt securities	104,809	-1,800	49,023	-2,244		153,832	-4,044
	Financial services	-	-	-	-		-	-
	All other	2,348	-722	-	-		2,348	-722
	Total equity securities	2,348	-722	-	-		2,348	-722
Total debt and equity securities	$	$	$	$		$	$
	107,157	-2,522	49,023	-2,244		156,180	-4,766
	As of  December 31, 2012
	12 months or less		Longer than 12 months			Total
		Unrealized		Unrealized			Unrealized
	Fair Value	Losses	Fair Value	Losses		Fair Value	Losses
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations
of U.S. Government	$	$	$              -	$             -		$	$
	23,998	-3				23,998	-3
Corporate bonds	10,802	-38	6,910	-725		17,712	-763
Collateralized corporate bank loans	6,273	-97	14,236	-646		20,509	-743
Municipal bonds	30,073	-362	28,809	-2,408		58,882	-2,770
Mortgage-backed	7,367	-32	84	-3		7,451	-35
Total debt securities	78,513	-532	50,039	-3,782		128,552	-4,314
Financial services	92	-1	-	-		92	-1
All other	3,271	-514	-	-		3,271	-514
Total equity securities	3,363	-515	-	-		3,363	-515
Total debt and equity securities	$	$	$	$		$	$
	81,876	-1,047	50,039	-3,782		131,915	-4,829
At September 30, 2013, the gross unrealized losses more than twelve months old were attributable to 75 debt security positions.  At December 31, 2012, the gross unrealized losses more than twelve months old were attributable to 56 debt security positions.  We consider these losses as a temporary decline in value as they are predominately on bonds that we do not intend to sell and do not believe we will be required to sell prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis.  We see no other indications that the decline in values of these securities is other-than-temporary.
Based on evidence gathered through our normal credit evaluation process, we presently expect that all debt securities held in our investment portfolio will be paid in accordance with their contractual terms.  Nonetheless, it is at least reasonably possible that the performance of certain issuers of these debt securities will be worse than currently expected resulting in additional future write-downs within our portfolio of debt securities.
Also, as a result of the challenging market conditions, we expect the volatility in the valuation of our equity securities to continue in the foreseeable future. This volatility may lead to additional impairments on our equity securities portfolio or changes regarding retention strategies for certain equity securities.
We complete a detailed analysis each quarter to assess whether any decline in the fair value of any investment below cost is deemed other-than-temporary. All securities with an unrealized loss are reviewed.  We recognize an impairment loss when an investment's value declines below cost, adjusted for accretion, amortization and previous other-than-temporary impairments and it is determined that the decline is other-than-temporary.
Debt Investments:   We assess whether we intend to sell, or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell, a fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current period credit losses.  For fixed maturity investments that are considered other-than-temporarily impaired and that we do not intend to sell and will not be required to sell, we separate the amount of the impairment into the amount that is credit related (credit loss component) and the amount due to all other factors.  The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and is the difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows.  The remaining difference between the investment’s fair value and the present value of future expected cash flows is recognized in other comprehensive income.
Equity Investments:  Some of the factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in fair value for an equity investment is other-than-temporary include: (1) our ability and intent to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in value; (2) the recoverability of cost; (3) the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; and (4) the financial condition and near-term and long-term prospects for the issuer, including the relevant industry conditions and trends, and implications of rating agency actions and offering prices. When it is determined that an equity investment is other-than-temporarily impaired, the security is written down to fair value, and the amount of the impairment is included in earnings as a realized investment loss. The fair value then becomes the new cost basis of the investment, and any subsequent recoveries in fair value are recognized at disposition. We recognize a realized loss when impairment is deemed to be other-than-temporary even if a decision to sell an equity investment has not been made. When we decide to sell a temporarily impaired available-for-sale equity investment and we do not expect the fair value of the equity investment to fully recover prior to the expected time of sale, the investment is deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired in the period in which the decision to sell is made.
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at September 30, 2013 by contractual maturity are as follows. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.
		Amortized	Fair
		Cost	Value
		(in thousands)
Due in one year or less		$	$
		63,230	63,768
Due after one year through five years		153,969	154,311
Due after five years through ten years		96,692	97,585
Due after ten years		52,424	51,891
Mortgage-backed		29,545	29,092
		$	$
		395,860	396,647

Pledged_Investments

Pledged Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Pledged Investments [Abstract]	'
Pledged Investments	'
	6. Pledged Investments
	We have pledged certain of our securities for the benefit of various state insurance departments and reinsurers. These securities are included with our available-for-sale debt securities because we have the ability to trade these securities. We retain the interest earned on these securities. These securities had a carrying value of $23.2 million and $24.3 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

Reserves_for_Unpaid_Losses_and

Reserves for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Reserves for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses [Abstract]	'
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	'
	7. Reserves for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
	Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) represent the estimated ultimate net cost of all reported and unreported losses incurred through each balance sheet date.  The reserves for unpaid losses and LAE are estimated using individual case-basis valuations and statistical analyses.  These reserves are revised periodically and are subject to the effects of trends in loss severity and frequency.  Due to the inherent uncertainty in estimating unpaid losses and LAE, the actual ultimate amounts may differ from the recorded amounts.  The estimates are periodically reviewed and adjusted as experience develops or new information becomes known.  Such adjustments are included in current operations.
	We recorded $0.5 million and $8.0 million of unfavorable prior years’ loss development during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.  For the year to date, the $8.0 million unfavorable development was attributable to $5.0 million unfavorable development on claims incurred in the 2012 accident year, $2.4 million unfavorable development on claims incurred in the 2011 accident year and $1.6 million on claims incurred in the 2010 accident year, partially offset by $1.0 million favorable development on claims incurred in the 2009 and prior accident years.  Our E&S Commercial business unit accounted for $11.7 million of the unfavorable development during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 primarily in our commercial auto liability line of business.  Our Personal Lines business unit accounted for $1.5 million of the unfavorable development. These unfavorable developments were partially offset by favorable development of $1.6 million in our Hallmark Select business unit, $2.4 million in our Standard Commercial P&C business unit and $1.2 million in our Workers Compensation business unit.
	The unfavorable development for our E&S Commercial business unit of $11.7 million was driven by unfavorable claims development primarily in our commercial auto liability line of business in the 2012, 2011, and 2010 accident years. The unfavorable loss development for our Personal Lines business unit of $1.5 million was primarily attributable to the 2012  accident year.  The favorable development for our Hallmark Select business unit of $1.6 million was driven by favorable claims development in the 2011 and prior accident years related to our aircraft liability lines of business, partially offset by unfavorable claims development in the 2012 accident year related to our aircraft hull coverage. The favorable loss development for our Standard Commercial P&C business unit of $2.4 million was primarily related to commercial auto liability in the 2010 and prior accident years, partially offset by unfavorable loss development related to commercial property in the 2012 accident year.  The favorable loss development in our Workers Compensation business unit of $1.2 million was related to the 2012 and 2011 accident years.
	We recorded $2.2 million and $3.6 million of favorable prior years’ loss development during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively. For the first nine months of 2012, our Hallmark Select business unit experienced $2.6 million of favorable prior years’ loss development related to our liability and aircraft lines of business. Our Standard Commercial P&C business unit experienced $2.0 million of favorable prior years’ loss development primarily related to commercial property and auto liability partially offset by the late development of a general liability claim. Our Workers Compensation business unit experienced $0.8 million of favorable prior year loss reserve development. Our E&S Commercial business unit experienced $1.1 million of favorable prior year loss reserve development primarily related to general liability and commercial auto physical damage. These favorable developments were partially offset by unfavorable prior year loss development of $2.9 million in our Personal Lines business unit for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, of which $2.2 million was the result of unfavorable development in auto liability claims spread throughout various states. The remaining unfavorable prior years’ loss development for our Personal Lines business unit was the result of $0.7 million of unfavorable prior years’ loss development in our low value dwelling/homeowners line of business.

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement

Share-Based Payment Arrangements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-Based Payment Arrangements [Abstract]	'
Share-Based Payment Arrangements	'
	8. Share-Based Payment Arrangements
	Our 2005 Long Term Incentive Plan (“2005 LTIP”) is a stock compensation plan for key employees and non-employee directors that was initially approved by the shareholders on May 26, 2005.  There are 2,000,000 shares authorized for issuance under the 2005 LTIP.  As of September 30, 2013, there were outstanding incentive stock options to purchase 1,087,618 shares of our common stock, non-qualified stock options to purchase 304,157 shares of our common stock and restricted stock units representing the right to receive up to 355,277 shares of our common stock. There are 237,115 shares reserved for future issuance under the 2005 LTIP.  The exercise price of all such outstanding stock options is equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant.
	Stock Options:
	Incentive stock options granted under the 2005 LTIP prior to 2009 vest 10%,  20%,  30% and 40% on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant, respectively, and terminate five to ten years from the date of grant.  Incentive stock options granted in 2009 and one grant of 5,000 incentive stock options in 2011 vest in equal annual increments on each of the first seven anniversary dates and terminate ten years from the date of grant.  One grant of 25,000 incentive stock options in 2010 and one grant of 10,000 incentive stock options in 2011 vest in equal annual increments on each of the first three anniversary dates and terminate ten years from the date of grant.  Non-qualified stock options granted under the 2005 LTIP generally vest 100% six months after the date of grant and terminate ten years from the date of grant.  One grant of 200,000 non-qualified stock options in 2009 vests in equal annual increments on each of the first seven anniversary dates and terminates ten years from the date of grant.
	A summary of the status of our stock options as of and changes during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 is presented below:
				Average
			Weighted	Remaining	Aggregate
			Average	Contractual	Intrinsic
		Number of	Exercise	Term	Value
		Shares	Price	(Years)	$0
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013	1,404,989	$      9.63
	Granted	-
	Exercised	-
	Forfeited or expired	(13,214)	$      7.90
	Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,391,775	$      9.65	4.5	$       1,327
	Exercisable at September 30, 2013	1,189,036	$    10.17	4.3	$          870
	The following table details the intrinsic value of options exercised, total cost of share-based payments charged against income before income tax benefit and the amount of related income tax benefit recognized in income for the periods indicated (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013	2012
	Intrinsic value of options exercised	$          -		$            -		$          -	$         -
	Cost of share-based payments (non-cash)	$        52		$            64		$        156	$     317
	Income tax benefit of share-based
	payments recognized in income	$          8		$              7		$          23	$       30
	As of September 30, 2013, there was $0.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options granted under our plans, of which $52 thousand is expected to be recognized for the remainder of 2013 and $0.2 million is expected to be recognized each year in 2014 and 2015,  $54 thousand is expected to be recognized in 2016 and $3 thousand is expected to be recognized in 2017.
	The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of Hallmark’s and similar companies’ common stock for a period equal to the expected term.  The risk-free interest rates for periods within the contractual term of the options are based on rates for U.S. Treasury Notes with maturity dates corresponding to the options’ expected lives on the dates of grant.  Expected term is determined based on the simplified method as we do not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a basis for estimating the expected term.  There have been no options granted during 2012 or 2013.
	Restricted Stock Units:
	The 2005 LTIP was amended by the shareholders on May 30, 2013 to authorize the grant of restricted stock units, in addition to the other types of awards available thereunder.  Restricted stock units represent the right to receive shares of common stock upon the satisfaction of vesting requirements, performance criteria and other terms and conditions.  On July 27, 2012 and April 10, 2013, an aggregate of 129,463 and 122,823 restricted stock units, respectively, were conditionally granted to certain employees of the Company subject to shareholder approval of the amendments to the 2005 LTIP at the May 30, 2013 shareholder meeting. One conditional grant of 9,280 restricted stock units was forfeited prior to approval at the shareholder meeting.
	The performance criteria for all restricted stock units require that the Company achieve certain compound average annual growth rates in book value per share over the vesting period in order to receive shares of common stock in amounts ranging from 50% to 150% of the number of restricted stock units granted.  In addition, certain restricted stock units contain an additional performance criteria related to the attainment of an average combined ratio percentage over the vesting period.   If and to the extent specified performance criteria have been achieved, the restricted stock units granted on July 27, 2012 will vest on March 31, 2015, and the restricted stock units granted on April 10, 2013 will vest on March 31, 2016.
	Compensation cost is measured as an amount equal to the fair value of the restricted stock units and is expensed over the vesting period if achievement of the performance criteria is deemed probable, with the amount of the expense recognized based on the Company’s best estimate of the ultimate achievement level.  The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units is $9.20 per unit.  The Company incurred $58 thousand and $90 thousand of compensation expense related to the restricted stock units during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.
	A summary of the status of our restricted stock units as of September 30, 2013 and changes during the nine months then ended is presented below:
		Number of
		Restricted
		Stock Units
	Nonvested at January 1, 2013	-
	Granted	243,006
	Vested	-
	Forfeited	-6,155
	Nonvested at September 30, 2013	236,851
	As of September 30, 2013, there was $0.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock units granted under our 2005 LTIP, of which $67 thousand is expected to be recognized for the remainder of 2013, $0.3 million is expected to be recognized in 2014, $0.2 million is expected to be recognized in 2015 and $53 thousand is expected to be recognized in 2016.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	9. Segment Information
	The following is business segment information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013	2012
	Revenues:
	Standard Commercial Segment	$		$		$	$
		21,163		17,761		62,160	53,791
	Specialty Commercial Segment	60,787		46,373		168,127	129,812
	Personal Segment	21,256		21,172		64,621	68,508
	Corporate	5,407		314		6,145	1,066
	Consolidated	$		$		$	$
		108,613		85,620		301,053	253,177
	Pre-tax income (loss) , net of non-controlling interest:
	Standard Commercial Segment	$		$		$	$
		1,163		-529		641	-2,601
	Specialty Commercial Segment	7,564		8,287		11,828	17,193
	Personal Segment	-1,613		-345		-3,331	-5,747
	Corporate	2,358		-2,650		-2,820	-8,082
	Consolidated	$		$		$	$
		9,472		4,763		6,318	763
	The following is additional business segment information as of the dates indicated (in thousands):
			September 30,		December 31,
			2013		2012
	Assets
	Standard Commercial Segment		$                  144,231		$     145,162
	Specialty Commercial Segment		526,160		432,208
	Personal Segment		192,588		200,356
	Corporate		16,738		12,742
			$                  879,717		$     790,468

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Reinsurance [Abstract]	'
Reinsurance	'
	10. Reinsurance
	We reinsure a portion of the risk we underwrite in order to control the exposure to losses and to protect capital resources.  We cede to reinsurers a portion of these risks and pay premiums based upon the risk and exposure of the policies subject to such reinsurance.  Ceded reinsurance involves credit risk and is generally subject to aggregate loss limits.  Although the reinsurer is liable to us to the extent of the reinsurance ceded, we are ultimately liable as the direct insurer on all risks reinsured.  Reinsurance recoverables are reported after allowances for uncollectible amounts.  We monitor the financial condition of reinsurers on an ongoing basis and review our reinsurance arrangements periodically.  Reinsurers are selected based on their financial condition, business practices and the price of their product offerings.  In order to mitigate credit risk to reinsurance companies, most of our reinsurance recoverable balance as of September 30, 2013 was with reinsurers that had an A.M. Best rating of “A–” or better.
	The following table shows earned premiums ceded and reinsurance loss recoveries by period (in thousands):
			Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
			September 30,		September 30,
			2013	2012	2013	2012
	Ceded earned premiums		$       16,488	$   14,141	$         45,629	$40,031
	Reinsurance recoveries		$         9,197	$     8,582	$         24,770	$22,633
	We currently reinsure the following exposures on business generated by our business units:
	·	Property catastrophe.  Our property catastrophe reinsurance reduces the financial impact a catastrophe could have on our commercial and personal property insurance lines.  Catastrophes might include multiple claims and policyholders.  Catastrophes include hurricanes, windstorms, earthquakes, hailstorms, explosions, severe winter weather and fires.  Our property catastrophe reinsurance is excess-of-loss reinsurance, which provides us reinsurance coverage for losses in excess of an agreed-upon amount.  We utilize catastrophe models to assist in determining appropriate retention and limits to purchase.  Effective July 1, 2013, the terms of our property catastrophe reinsurance are:
	o	We retain the first $6.0 million of property catastrophe losses; and
	o	Our reinsurers reimburse us 100% for any loss occurrence in excess of our $6.0 million retention up to $29.0 million for each catastrophic occurrence, subject to an aggregate limit of $58.0 million.
	·	Commercial property.  Our commercial property reinsurance is excess-of-loss coverage intended to reduce the financial impact a single-event or catastrophic loss may have on our results.  The terms of our commercial property reinsurance are:
	o	We retain the first $1.0 million of loss for each commercial property risk;
	o	Our reinsurers reimburse us for the next $5.0 million for each commercial property risk, and $10.0 million for all commercial property risk involved in any one occurrence, in all cases subject to an aggregate limit of $30.0 million for all commercial property losses occurring during the treaty period; and
	o	Individual risk facultative reinsurance is purchased on any commercial property with limits above $6.0 million.
	·	Commercial casualty.  Our commercial casualty reinsurance is excess-of-loss coverage intended to reduce the financial impact a single-event loss may have on our results.  The terms of our commercial casualty reinsurance are:
	o	We retain the first $1.0 million of any commercial liability risk; and
	o	Our reinsurers reimburse us for the next $5.0 million for each commercial liability risk.
	·	Aviation.  Effective July 1, 2013 we purchase proportional reinsurance where we cede 80% of the risk to reinsurers on the aviation risks produced in all states by our Hallmark Select business unit.
	·	Workers Compensation.  We purchase excess of loss reinsurance specific to the workers compensation risks underwritten by our Workers Compensation business unit.  The terms of our workers compensation reinsurance are:
	o	We retain the first $1.0 million of each workers compensation loss; and
	o	Our reinsurers reimburse us 100% for the next $14.0 million for each workers compensation loss, subject to a maximum limit of $10.0 million for any one person and an aggregate limit of $28.0 million for all workers compensation losses.
	·	Personal Property.  We purchase proportional reinsurance where we cede 60% of the risks to reinsurers on the low value dwelling/homeowners, renters and manufactured homes coverages produced in all states by our Personal Lines business unit.
	·	Standard Commercial P&C.  We purchase proportional reinsurance where we cede 100% of the risks to reinsurers on the equipment breakdown coverage on our commercial multi-peril property and business owners risks and on the employment practices liability coverage on certain commercial multi-peril, general liability and business owners risks.
	·	Excess & Umbrella.  We purchase proportional reinsurance where we retain 20% of each risk and cede the remaining 80% to reinsurers on the commercial umbrella and excess liability insurance produced by our Hallmark Select business unit.  In states where we are not yet licensed to offer a non-admitted product, we utilize a fronting arrangement pursuant to which we assume all of the risk and then retrocede a portion of that risk under the same proportional reinsurance treaty.
	·	Professional Liability.  Effective June 1, 2013, we purchase proportional reinsurance on our medical professional liability risks produced by our Hallmark Select business unit where we retain 60% of each risk and cede the remaining 40% to reinsurers. In states where we are not yet licensed to offer a non-admitted product, we utilize a fronting arrangement pursuant to which we assume all of the risk and then retrocede a portion of that risk under the same proportional reinsurance treaty.
	·	E&S Commercial. We purchase facultative reinsurance on our commercial umbrella and excess liability risks produced by our E&S Commercial business unit where we retain 10% of the first $1.0 million of risk and cede the remaining 90% to reinsurers. We cede 100% of our commercial umbrella and excess liability risks in excess of $1.0 million.
	·	Hallmark County Mutual.  HCM is used to front certain lines of business in our Specialty Commercial and Personal Segments in Texas where we previously produced policies for third party county mutual insurance companies and reinsured 100% for a fronting fee.  In addition, HCM is used to front business produced by unaffiliated third parties. HCM does not retain any business.
	·	Hallmark National Insurance Company.  Simultaneous with the December 31, 2010 closing of our acquisition of HNIC, HNIC entered into reinsurance contracts with an affiliate of the seller pursuant to which such affiliate of the seller handles all claims and assumes all liabilities arising under policies issued by HNIC prior to closing or during a transition period following the closing.

Revolving_Credit_Facility_Paya

Revolving Credit Facility Payable	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Revolving Credit Facility Payable [Abstract]	'
Revolving Credit Facility Payable	'
	11. Revolving Credit Facility Payable
	Our First Restated Credit Agreement with The Frost National Bank dated January 27, 2006, as amended to date, provides a revolving credit facility of $15.0 million. We pay interest on the outstanding balance at our election at a rate of the prime rate or LIBOR plus 2.5%.  We pay an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily unused balance of the credit facility. We pay letter of credit fees at the rate of 1.00% per annum.  Our obligations under the revolving credit facility are secured by a security interest in the capital stock of all of our subsidiaries, guarantees of all of our subsidiaries and the pledge of all of our non-insurance company assets.  The revolving credit facility contains covenants that, among other things, require us to maintain certain financial and operating ratios and restrict certain distributions, transactions and organizational changes.  We are in compliance with all of our covenants.  As of September 30, 2013, the balance on the revolving note was $1.5 million.  The revolving note currently bears interest at 2.75% per annum.

Subordinated_Debt_Securities

Subordinated Debt Securities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Subordinated Debt Securities [Abstract]	'
Subordinated Debt Securities	'
	12.  Subordinated Debt Securities
	On June 21, 2005, we entered into a trust preferred securities transaction pursuant to which we issued $30.9 million aggregate principal amount of subordinated debt securities due in 2035.  To effect the transaction, we formed Trust I as a Delaware statutory trust.  Trust I issued $30.0 million of preferred securities to investors and $0.9 million of common securities to us.  Trust I used the proceeds from these issuances to purchase the subordinated debt securities.  Our Trust I subordinated debt securities bear an initial interest rate of 7.725% until June 15, 2015, at which time interest will adjust quarterly to the three-month LIBOR rate plus 3.25 percentage points.  Trust I pays dividends on its preferred securities at the same rate.  Under the terms of our Trust I subordinated debt securities, we pay interest only each quarter and the principal of the note at maturity.  The subordinated debt securities are uncollaterized and do not require maintenance of minimum financial covenants. As of September 30, 2013, the balance of our Trust I subordinated debt was $30.9 million.
	On August 23, 2007, we entered into a trust preferred securities transaction pursuant to which we issued $25.8 million aggregate principal amount of subordinated debt securities due in 2037.  To effect the transaction, we formed Trust II as a Delaware statutory trust.  Trust II issued $25.0 million of preferred securities to investors and $0.8 million of common securities to us.  Trust II used the proceeds from these issuances to purchase the subordinated debt securities.  Our Trust II subordinated debt securities bear an initial interest rate of 8.28% until September 15, 2017, at which time interest will adjust quarterly to the three-month LIBOR rate plus 2.90 percentage points.  Trust II pays dividends on its preferred securities at the same rate.  Under the terms of our Trust II subordinated debt securities, we pay interest only each quarter and the principal of the note at maturity.  The subordinated debt securities are uncollaterized and do not require maintenance of minimum financial covenants. As of September 30, 2013, the balance of our Trust II subordinated debt was $25.8 million.

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Abstract]	'
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	'
	13. Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
	The following table shows total deferred and amortized policy acquisition cost activity by period (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Deferred	$              (34,995)	$        (12,011)	$         (53,243)	$  (45,281)
	Amortized	34,715	11,084	51,211	41,427
	Net	$                (280)	$           (927)	$          (2,032)	$   (3,854)

Earnings_per_Share

Earnings per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings per Share	'
	14. Earnings per Share
	The following table sets forth basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the periods indicated (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Weighted average shares - basic	19,263	19,263	19,263	19,263
	Effect of dilutive securities	107	14	97	4
	Weighted average shares - assuming dilution	19,370	19,277	19,360	19,267
	For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013, 779,999 shares of common stock potentially issuable upon the exercise of employee stock options were excluded from the weighted average number of shares outstanding on a diluted basis because the effect of such options would be anti-dilutive.  For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, 809,999 shares of common stock potentially issuable upon the exercise of employee stock options were excluded from the weighted average number of shares outstanding on a diluted basis because the effect of such options would be anti-dilutive.

Net_Periodic_Pension_Cost

Net Periodic Pension Cost	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Net Periodic Pension Cost [Abstract]	'
Net Periodic Pension Cost	'
	15. Net Periodic Pension Cost
	The following table details the net periodic pension cost incurred by period (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Interest cost	$	$	$	$
		127	141	379	422
	Amortization of net loss	123	120	371	362
	Expected return on plan assets	-154	-146	-462	-438
	Net periodic pension cost	$	$	$	$
		96	115	288	346
	Contributed amount	$	$	$	$
		157	410	268	711
	Refer to Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more discussion of our retirement plans.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	16.   Income Taxes
	Our effective income tax rate for the first nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was 23.8% and -90.0%, respectively, which varied from the statutory tax rate due in large part to significant tax exempt income.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	17. Commitments and Contingencies
	In December 2010, our E&S Commercial business unit was informed by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts that a surplus lines tax audit covering the period January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2009 was complete.  A subsidiary within our E&S Commercial business unit (“HSU”) frequently acts as a managing general underwriter (“MGU”) authorized to underwrite policies on behalf of Republic Vanguard Insurance Company and HSIC, both Texas eligible surplus lines insurance carriers.  In its role as the MGU, HSU underwrites policies on behalf of these carriers while other agencies located in Texas, generally referred to as “producing agents,” deliver the policies to the insureds and collect all premiums due from the insureds.  During the period under audit, the producing agents also collected the surplus lines premium taxes due on the policies from the insureds, held them in trust, and timely remitted those taxes to the Comptroller.  We believe this system for collecting and paying the required surplus lines premium taxes complies in all respects with the Texas Insurance Code and other regulations, which clearly require that the same party who delivers the policies and collects the premiums will also collect premium taxes, hold premium taxes in trust, and pay premium taxes to the Comptroller.  It also complies with long standing industry practice.  The Comptroller asserts that HSU is liable for the surplus lines premium taxes related to policy transactions and premiums collected from surplus lines insureds during the audit period and that HSU owes $4.5 million in premium taxes, as well as $0.9 million in penalties and interest for the audit period.
	We disagree with the Comptroller and intend to vigorously fight their assertion that HSU is liable for the surplus lines premium taxes. We have engaged in conversations with the Comptroller’s counsel and are waiting on the Comptroller’s position paper. At this stage, we cannot predict the course of any proceedings, the timing of any rulings or other significant events relating to such surplus lines tax audit.  Given these limitations and the inherent difficulty of projecting the outcome of regulatory disputes, we are presently unable to reasonably estimate the possible loss or legal costs that are likely to arise out of the surplus lines tax audit or any future proceedings relating to this matter. Therefore we have not accrued any amount as of September 30, 2013 related to this matter.
	We are engaged in other legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business, none of which, either individually or in the aggregate, are believed likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations, in the opinion of management.  The various legal proceedings to which we are a party are routine in nature and incidental to our business.

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances [Abstract]	'
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances	'
	18. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances
	The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances as of September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows (in thousands):
		Minimum		Accumulated Other
		Pension	Unrealized	Comprehensive
		Liability	Gains (Loss)	Income
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	$	$
		-2,978	9,424	6,446
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	362	-	362
	Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	-127	-	-127
	Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	-	4,560	4,560
	Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	-	-1,596	-1,596
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net realized gains	-	-2,044	-2,044
	Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included
	in income tax expense	-	715	715
	Other comprehensive income , net of tax	235	1,635	1,870
	Balance at September 30, 2012	$	$	$
		-2,743	11,059	8,316
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	$	$
		-2,954	10,853	7,899
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	371	-	371
	Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	-130	-	-130
	Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	-	16,243	16,243
	Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	-	-5,685	-5,685
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net realized gains	-	-9,723	-9,723
	Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included in income
	tax expense	-	3,403	3,403
	Other comprehensive income, net of tax	241	4,238	4,479
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	$	$
		-2,713	15,091	12,378

Basis_of_Presentation_Policy

Basis of Presentation (Policy)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Business Combinations	'
	Business Combinations
	We account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting pursuant to Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, “Business Combinations.” The base cash purchase price plus the estimated fair value of any non-cash or contingent consideration given for an acquired business is allocated to the assets acquired (including identified intangible assets) and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair values of such assets and liabilities. The excess of the fair value of the total consideration given for an acquired business over the aggregate net fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Contingent consideration is recognized as a liability at fair value as of the acquisition date with subsequent fair value adjustments recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. The valuation of contingent consideration requires assumptions regarding anticipated cash flows, probabilities of cash flows, discount rates and other factors. Significant judgment is employed in determining the propriety of these assumptions as of the acquisition date and for each subsequent period. Accordingly, future business and economic conditions, as well as changes in any of the assumptions, can materially impact the amount of contingent consideration expense we record in any given period. Indirect and general expenses related to business combinations are expensed as incurred.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	We file a consolidated federal income tax return.  Deferred federal income taxes reflect the future tax consequences of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year end.  Deferred taxes are recognized using the liability method, whereby tax rates are applied to cumulative temporary differences based on when and how they are expected to affect the tax return. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for tax rate changes in effect for the year in which these temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements	'
	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements
	Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities and our disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, as well as our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments” under Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 for information on accounting policies that we consider critical in preparing our consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Fair value estimates are made at a point in time, based on relevant market data as well as the best information available about the financial instruments.  Fair value estimates for financial instruments for which no or limited observable market data is available are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, credit and interest rate risk.  These estimates involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision.  As a result, such calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument.  In addition, changes in the underlying assumptions used in the fair value measurement technique, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect these fair value estimates.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents:  The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.
	Restricted Cash:  The carrying amount for restricted cash reported in the balance sheet approximates the fair value.
	Revolving Credit Facility Payable:  The carrying value of our bank revolving credit facility of $1.5 million approximates the fair value based on the current interest rate.
	Subordinated Debt Securities:  Our trust preferred securities have a carried value of $56.7 million and a fair value of $51.9 million as of September 30, 2013.  The fair value of our trust preferred securities is based on discounted cash flows using a current yield to maturity of 8.0%, which is based on similar issues to discount future cash flows.  Our trust preferred securities would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value.
	For reinsurance balances,  premiums receivable, federal income tax payable, other assets and other liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of such financial instruments.
Variable Interest Entities	'
	Variable Interest Entities
	On June 21, 2005, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust I (“Trust I”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $30.0 million in trust preferred securities.  Trust I used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $30.9 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark.  The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust I, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust I.
	On August 23, 2007, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust II (“Trust II”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $25.0 million in trust preferred securities.  Trust II used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $25.8 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark.  The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust II, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust II.
	We evaluate on an ongoing basis our investments in Trust I and II (collectively the “Trusts”) and we do not have a variable interest in the Trusts.  Therefore, the Trusts are not included in our consolidated financial statements.
	We are also involved in the normal course of business with variable interest entities (“VIE’s”) primarily as a passive investor in mortgage-backed securities and certain collateralized corporate bank loans issued by third party VIE’s.  The maximum exposure to loss with respect to these investments is the investment carrying values included in the consolidated balance sheets.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
	In January 2013, we adopted new guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) related to reporting and disclosure requirements about changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances and reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income.  The new guidance is effective prospectively for fiscal and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012.  The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations but did require additional disclosures.

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis	'
	The following table presents for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, our assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
		As of September 30, 2013
		Quoted Prices in		Other
		Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable
		Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs
		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Total
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government	$              -		$		$        -		$
				34,114				34,114
	Corporate bonds	-		59,393		-		59,393
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	-		118,852		700		119,552
	Municipal bonds	-		134,906		19,590		154,496
	Mortgage-backed	-		29,092		-		29,092
	Total debt securities	-		376,357		20,290		396,647
	Financial services	7,690		-		-		7,690
	All other	38,250		-		-		38,250
	Total equity securities	45,940		-		-		45,940
	Total debt and equity securities	$		$		$		$
		45,940		376,357		20,290		442,587
		As of December 31, 2012
		Quoted Prices in	Other
		Active Markets for	Observable		Unobservable
		Identical Assets	Inputs		Inputs
		(Level 1)	(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Total
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government	$              -	$		$          -		$
			40,061				40,061
	Corporate bonds	-	81,547		-		81,547
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	-	105,463		908		106,371
	Municipal bonds	-	144,972		18,760		163,732
	Mortgage-backed	-	9,724		-		9,724
	Total debt securities	-	381,767		19,668		401,435
	Financial services	14,887	-		-		14,887
	All other	29,038	-		-		29,038
	Total equity securities	43,925	-		-		43,925
	Total debt and equity securities	$	$          381,767		$		$
		43,925			19,668		445,360
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	'
	The following table summarizes the changes in fair value for all financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	Beginning balance as of January 1, 2013	$
		19,668
	Sales	-
	Settlements	-302
	Purchases	-
	Issuances	-
	Total realized/unrealized gains included in net income	-
	Net gains included in other comprehensive income	924
	Transfers into Level 3	-
	Transfers out of Level 3	-
	Ending balance as of September 30, 2013	$
		20,290
	Beginning balance as of January 1, 2012	$
		20,608
	Sales	-
	Settlements	-307
	Purchases	-
	Issuances	-
	Total realized/unrealized gains included in net income	-
	Net losses included in other comprehensive income	-530
	Transfers into Level 3	-
	Transfers out of Level 3	-
	Ending balance as of September 30, 2012	$
		19,771

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Investments in Debt and Equity Securities by Category	'
	The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt and equity securities by category is as follows (in thousands):
						Gross		Gross
				Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized	Fair
	As of September 30, 2013			Cost		Gains		Losses	Value
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$		$		$                  -	$
				34,083		31			34,114
	Corporate bonds			58,633		1,285		-525	59,393
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			119,626		475		-549	119,552
	Municipal bonds			153,974		2,701		-2,179	154,496
	Mortgage-backed			29,544		339		-791	29,092
	Total debt securities			395,860		4,831		-4,044	396,647
	Financial services			4,705		2,985		-	7,690
	All other			19,328		19,644		-722	38,250
	Total equity securities			24,033		22,629		-722	45,940
	Total debt and equity securities			$		$		$	$
				419,893		27,460		-4,766	442,587
	As of December 31, 2012
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$		$		$	$
				40,050		14		-3	40,061
	Corporate bonds			79,516		2,794		-763	81,547
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			106,093		1,021		-743	106,371
	Municipal bonds			162,479		4,023		-2,770	163,732
	Mortgage-backed			9,662		97		-35	9,724
	Total debt securities			397,800		7,949		-4,314	401,435
	Financial services			11,008		3,880		-1	14,887
	All other			20,494		9,058		-514	29,038
	Total equity securities			31,502		12,938		-515	43,925
	Total debt and equity securities			$		$		$	$
				429,302		20,887		-4,829	445,360
Summary of Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments	'
	Major categories of net realized gains (losses) on investments are summarized as follows (in thousands):
				Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
				30-Sep				30-Sep
				2013		2012		2013	2012
	U.S. Treasury securities and
	obligations of U.S. Government			$             -		$         -		$       -	$      -
	Corporate bonds			21		159		846	9
	Collateralized corporate bank loans			44		93		316	229
	Municipal bonds			-50		-50		-11	-294
	Equity securities-financial services			6,935		8		7,579	78
	Equity securities-all other			-		772		993	2,078
	Gain on investments			6,950		982		9,723	2,100
	Other-than-temporary impairments			-		-		-	-246
	Net realized gains			$		$         982		$	$  1,854
				6,950				9,723
Summary of Gross Unrealized Losses for Investments that have been Continuously in Unrealized Loss Position	'
	The following schedules summarize the gross unrealized losses showing the length of time that investments have been continuously in an unrealized loss position as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
		As of September 30, 2013
		12 months or less		Longer than 12 months			Total
			Unrealized		Unrealized			Unrealized
		Fair Value	Losses	Fair Value	Losses		Fair Value	Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations
	of U.S. Government	$                   -	$                -	$                -	$                 -		$                  -	$                  -
	Corporate bonds	12,694	-156	3,048	-369		15,742	-525
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	48,926	-368	6,915	-181		55,841	-549
	Municipal bonds	28,861	-488	38,953	-1,691		67,814	-2,179
	Mortgage-backed	14,328	-788	107	-3		14,435	-791
	Total debt securities	104,809	-1,800	49,023	-2,244		153,832	-4,044
	Financial services	-	-	-	-		-	-
	All other	2,348	-722	-	-		2,348	-722
	Total equity securities	2,348	-722	-	-		2,348	-722
	Total debt and equity securities	$	$	$	$		$	$
		107,157	-2,522	49,023	-2,244		156,180	-4,766
		As of  December 31, 2012
		12 months or less		Longer than 12 months			Total
			Unrealized		Unrealized			Unrealized
		Fair Value	Losses	Fair Value	Losses		Fair Value	Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations
	of U.S. Government	$	$	$              -	$             -		$	$
		23,998	-3				23,998	-3
	Corporate bonds	10,802	-38	6,910	-725		17,712	-763
	Collateralized corporate bank loans	6,273	-97	14,236	-646		20,509	-743
	Municipal bonds	30,073	-362	28,809	-2,408		58,882	-2,770
	Mortgage-backed	7,367	-32	84	-3		7,451	-35
	Total debt securities	78,513	-532	50,039	-3,782		128,552	-4,314
	Financial services	92	-1	-	-		92	-1
	All other	3,271	-514	-	-		3,271	-514
	Total equity securities	3,363	-515	-	-		3,363	-515
	Total debt and equity securities	$	$	$	$		$	$
		81,876	-1,047	50,039	-3,782		131,915	-4,829
Schedule of Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Debt Securities by Contractual Maturities	'
			Amortized	Fair
			Cost	Value
			(in thousands)
	Due in one year or less		$	$
			63,230	63,768
	Due after one year through five years		153,969	154,311
	Due after five years through ten years		96,692	97,585
	Due after ten years		52,424	51,891
	Mortgage-backed		29,545	29,092
			$	$
			395,860	396,647

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement1

Share-Based Payment Arrangements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-Based Payment Arrangements [Abstract]	'
Summary of the Status of Stock Options	'
	A summary of the status of our stock options as of and changes during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 is presented below:
				Average
			Weighted	Remaining	Aggregate
			Average	Contractual	Intrinsic
		Number of	Exercise	Term	Value
		Shares	Price	(Years)	$0
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013	1,404,989	$      9.63
	Granted	-
	Exercised	-
	Forfeited or expired	(13,214)	$      7.90
	Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,391,775	$      9.65	4.5	$       1,327
	Exercisable at September 30, 2013	1,189,036	$    10.17	4.3	$          870
Schedule of Options, Grants in Period and Grant Date Intrinsic Value	'
	The following table details the intrinsic value of options exercised, total cost of share-based payments charged against income before income tax benefit and the amount of related income tax benefit recognized in income for the periods indicated (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013	2012
	Intrinsic value of options exercised	$          -		$            -		$          -	$         -
	Cost of share-based payments (non-cash)	$        52		$            64		$        156	$     317
	Income tax benefit of share-based
	payments recognized in income	$          8		$              7		$          23	$       30
Summary of the Status of Restricted Stock Units	'
	A summary of the status of our restricted stock units as of September 30, 2013 and changes during the nine months then ended is presented below:
		Number of
		Restricted
		Stock Units
	Nonvested at January 1, 2013	-
	Granted	243,006
	Vested	-
	Forfeited	-6,155
	Nonvested at September 30, 2013	236,851

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Business Segment Information	'
	The following is business segment information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013	2012
	Revenues:
	Standard Commercial Segment	$		$		$	$
		21,163		17,761		62,160	53,791
	Specialty Commercial Segment	60,787		46,373		168,127	129,812
	Personal Segment	21,256		21,172		64,621	68,508
	Corporate	5,407		314		6,145	1,066
	Consolidated	$		$		$	$
		108,613		85,620		301,053	253,177
	Pre-tax income (loss) , net of non-controlling interest:
	Standard Commercial Segment	$		$		$	$
		1,163		-529		641	-2,601
	Specialty Commercial Segment	7,564		8,287		11,828	17,193
	Personal Segment	-1,613		-345		-3,331	-5,747
	Corporate	2,358		-2,650		-2,820	-8,082
	Consolidated	$		$		$	$
		9,472		4,763		6,318	763
Schedule of Additional Business Segment Information	'
	The following is additional business segment information as of the dates indicated (in thousands):
			September 30,		December 31,
			2013		2012
	Assets
	Standard Commercial Segment		$                  144,231		$     145,162
	Specialty Commercial Segment		526,160		432,208
	Personal Segment		192,588		200,356
	Corporate		16,738		12,742
			$                  879,717		$     790,468

Reinsurance_Tables

Reinsurance (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Reinsurance [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Reinsurance Ceded and Recoveries	'
	The following table shows earned premiums ceded and reinsurance loss recoveries by period (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Ceded earned premiums	$       16,488	$   14,141	$         45,629	$40,031
	Reinsurance recoveries	$         9,197	$     8,582	$         24,770	$22,633

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co1

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Abstract]	'
Deferred Amortized Policy Acquisition Costs	'
	The following table shows total deferred and amortized policy acquisition cost activity by period (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Deferred	$              (34,995)	$        (12,011)	$         (53,243)	$  (45,281)
	Amortized	34,715	11,084	51,211	41,427
	Net	$                (280)	$           (927)	$          (2,032)	$   (3,854)

Earnings_per_Share_Tables

Earnings per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding	'
	The following table sets forth basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the periods indicated (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Weighted average shares - basic	19,263	19,263	19,263	19,263
	Effect of dilutive securities	107	14	97	4
	Weighted average shares - assuming dilution	19,370	19,277	19,360	19,267

Net_Periodic_Pension_Cost_Tabl

Net Periodic Pension Cost (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Net Periodic Pension Cost [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	'
	The following table details the net periodic pension cost incurred by period (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,		September 30,
		2013	2012	2013	2012
	Interest cost	$	$	$	$
		127	141	379	422
	Amortization of net loss	123	120	371	362
	Expected return on plan assets	-154	-146	-462	-438
	Net periodic pension cost	$	$	$	$
		96	115	288	346
	Contributed amount	$	$	$	$
		157	410	268	711

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C1

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances as of September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows (in thousands):
		Minimum		Accumulated Other
		Pension	Unrealized	Comprehensive
		Liability	Gains (Loss)	Income
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	$	$
		-2,978	9,424	6,446
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	362	-	362
	Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	-127	-	-127
	Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	-	4,560	4,560
	Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	-	-1,596	-1,596
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net realized gains	-	-2,044	-2,044
	Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included
	in income tax expense	-	715	715
	Other comprehensive income , net of tax	235	1,635	1,870
	Balance at September 30, 2012	$	$	$
		-2,743	11,059	8,316
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	$	$
		-2,954	10,853	7,899
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	371	-	371
	Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	-130	-	-130
	Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	-	16,243	16,243
	Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	-	-5,685	-5,685
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net realized gains	-	-9,723	-9,723
	Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains included in income
	tax expense	-	3,403	3,403
	Other comprehensive income, net of tax	241	4,238	4,479
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	$	$
		-2,713	15,091	12,378

General_Narrative_Details

General (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
	segment
General [Abstract]	'
Operating business units of subsidiaries	5
Number of reportable segments	3

Basis_of_Presentation_Narrativ

Basis of Presentation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		0 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 21, 2005	Aug. 23, 2007	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 21, 2005	Aug. 23, 2007
		Revolving Credit Facility Payable [Member]	Hallmark Statutory Trust I [Member]	Hallmark Statutory Trust II [Member]	Subordinated Debt [Member]	Subordinated Debt [Member]	Subordinated Debt [Member]
						Hallmark Statutory Trust I [Member]	Hallmark Statutory Trust II [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	'	$1.50	'	'	'	'	'
Trust preferred securities, carrying value	'	'	'	'	56.7	'	'
Trust preferred securities, fair value	'	'	'	'	51.9	'	'
Current yield to maturity percentage	9.80%	'	'	'	8.00%	'	'
Proceeds from issuance of trust preferred securities	'	'	30	25	'	'	'
Payments to acquire trust preferred investments	'	'	'	'	'	$30.90	$25.80

Business_Combinations_Narrativ

Business Combinations (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended					9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jul. 01, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Aug. 29, 2008	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2010	Jan. 03, 2011
		TBIC Holding Corporation [Member]	TBIC Holding Corporation [Member]	Heath XS LLC and Hardscrabble Data Solutions LLC [Member]	Heath XS LLC and Hardscrabble Data Solutions LLC [Member]	State Auto Financial Corporation [Member]	Hallmark National Insurance Company [Member]	Hallmark National Insurance Company [Member]	Hallmark National Insurance Company [Member]
							state
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Ownership percentage acquired	'	'	'	'	80.00%	'	'	'	'
Total consideration for acquisition	'	'	$1,600,000	'	$15,000,000	'	'	'	$14,000,000
Percentage of ownership interests authorized for purchase	'	'	'	20.00%	20.00%	'	'	'	'
Redemption value of call and put option	'	'	'	1,700,000	'	'	'	'	'
Holdback purchase price estimated to pay	350,000	350,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross collected premium, percentage	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2.00%	'
Business acquisition, cost of acquired entity, purchase price, additional amount	'	'	'	'	'	2,000,000	'	'	'
Fair value of contingent consideration	'	'	$3,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of states, independent agents operate	'	'	'	'	'	'	21	'	'

Fair_Value_Narrative_Details

Fair Value (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Current yield to maturity percentage	9.80%

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_Assets_M

Fair Value (Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	$396,647	$401,435
Total equity securities	45,940	43,925
Total debt and equity securities	442,587	445,360
Us Treasury Securities and Obligations of U.S. Government [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	34,114	40,061
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	59,393	81,547
Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	119,552	106,371
Municipal Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	154,496	163,732
Mortgage Backed [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	29,092	9,724
Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total equity securities	7,690	14,887
All Other [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total equity securities	38,250	29,038
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total equity securities	45,940	43,925
Total debt and equity securities	45,940	43,925
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets, Level 1 [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total equity securities	7,690	14,887
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets, Level 1 [Member] | All Other [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total equity securities	38,250	29,038
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	376,357	381,767
Total debt and equity securities	376,357	381,767
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Us Treasury Securities and Obligations of U.S. Government [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	34,114	40,061
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	59,393	81,547
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	118,852	105,463
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	134,906	144,972
Other Observable Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Mortgage Backed [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	29,092	9,724
Unobservable Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	20,290	19,668
Total debt and equity securities	20,290	19,668
Unobservable Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	700	908
Unobservable Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total debt securities	$19,590	$18,760

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_Assets_M1

Fair Value (Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Fair Value [Abstract]	'	'
Beginning balance	$19,668	$20,608
Sales	'	'
Settlements	-302	-307
Purchases	'	'
Issuances	'	'
Total realized/unrealized gains included in net income	'	'
Net gain (losses) included in other comprehensive income	924	-530
Transfers into Level 3	'	'
Transfers out of Level 3	'	'
Ending balance	$20,290	$19,771

Investments_Narrative_Details

Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
	security		security		security
Investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross gains on investments	$7.10	$1.10	$9.90	$2.60	'
Gross losses on investments	0.1	0.1	0.2	0.5	'
Proceeds from sale of investment securities	$12.50	$3.50	$30.20	$9.70	'
Number of debt security positions	75	'	75	'	56

Investments_Amortized_Cost_and

Investments (Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Investments in Debt and Equity Securities by Category) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	$419,893	$429,302
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	27,460	20,887
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-4,766	-4,829
Investments, Fair Value	442,587	445,360
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	24,033	31,502
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	22,629	12,938
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-722	-515
Investments, Fair Value	45,940	43,925
Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	395,860	397,800
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,831	7,949
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-4,044	-4,314
Investments, Fair Value	396,647	401,435
Us Treasury Securities and Obligations of U.S. Government [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	34,083	40,050
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	31	14
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-3
Investments, Fair Value	34,114	40,061
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	58,633	79,516
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,285	2,794
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-525	-763
Investments, Fair Value	59,393	81,547
Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	119,626	106,093
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	475	1,021
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-549	-743
Investments, Fair Value	119,552	106,371
Municipal Bonds [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	153,974	162,479
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,701	4,023
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-2,179	-2,770
Investments, Fair Value	154,496	163,732
Mortgage Backed [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	29,544	9,662
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	339	97
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-791	-35
Investments, Fair Value	29,092	9,724
Financial Services [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	4,705	11,008
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,985	3,880
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-1
Investments, Fair Value	7,690	14,887
All Other [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, Amortized Cost	19,328	20,494
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gains	19,644	9,058
Investments, Gross Unrealized Losses	-722	-514
Investments, Fair Value	$38,250	$29,038

Investments_Summary_of_Realize

Investments (Summary of Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	$6,950	$982	$9,723	$2,100
Other-than-temporary impairments	'	'	'	-246
Net realized gains	6,950	982	9,723	1,854
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	21	159	846	9
Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	44	93	316	229
Municipal Bonds [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	-50	-50	-11	-294
Financial Services [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	6,935	8	7,579	78
All Other [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain on investments	'	$772	$993	$2,078

Investments_Summary_of_Gross_U

Investments (Summary of Gross Unrealized Losses for Investments that have been Continuously in Unrealized Loss Position) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	$107,157	$81,876
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-2,522	-1,047
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	49,023	50,039
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-2,244	-3,782
Total Fair Value	156,180	131,915
Total Unrealized Losses	-4,766	-4,829
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	2,348	3,363
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-722	-515
Total Fair Value	2,348	3,363
Total Unrealized Losses	-722	-515
Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	104,809	78,513
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-1,800	-532
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	49,023	50,039
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-2,244	-3,782
Total Fair Value	153,832	128,552
Total Unrealized Losses	-4,044	-4,314
Us Treasury Securities and Obligations of U.S. Government [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	'	23,998
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	'	-3
Total Fair Value	'	23,998
Total Unrealized Losses	'	-3
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	12,694	10,802
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-156	-38
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	3,048	6,910
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-369	-725
Total Fair Value	15,742	17,712
Total Unrealized Losses	-525	-763
Collateralized Corporate Bank Loans [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	48,926	6,273
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-368	-97
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	6,915	14,236
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-181	-646
Total Fair Value	55,841	20,509
Total Unrealized Losses	-549	-743
Municipal Bonds [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	28,861	30,073
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-488	-362
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	38,953	28,809
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-1,691	-2,408
Total Fair Value	67,814	58,882
Total Unrealized Losses	-2,179	-2,770
Mortgage Backed [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	14,328	7,367
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-788	-32
Fair Value Longer than 12 months	107	84
Unrealized Losses Longer than 12 months	-3	-3
Total Fair Value	14,435	7,451
Total Unrealized Losses	-791	-35
Financial Services [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	'	92
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	'	-1
Total Fair Value	'	92
Total Unrealized Losses	'	-1
All Other [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value 12 months or less	2,348	3,271
Unrealized Losses 12 months or less	-722	-514
Total Fair Value	2,348	3,271
Total Unrealized Losses	($722)	($514)

Investments_Schedule_of_Amorti

Investments (Schedule of Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Debt Securities by Contractual Maturities) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Due in one year or less, Amortized Cost	$63,230	'
Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	153,969	'
Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	96,692	'
Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	52,424	'
Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost	395,860	'
Due in one year or less, Fair Value	63,768	'
Due after one year through five years, Fair Value	154,311	'
Due after five years through ten years, Fair Value	97,585	'
Due after ten years, Fair Value	51,891	'
Debt Securities, Fair Value	396,647	401,435
Mortgage Backed [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost	29,545	'
Debt Securities, Fair Value	$29,092	$9,724

Pledged_Investments_Narrative_

Pledged Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Pledged Investments [Abstract]	'	'
Securities Available-for-sale Pledged, Carrying Value	$23.20	$24.30

Reserves_for_Unpaid_Losses_and1

Reserves for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	$2.20	'	$3.60
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	0.5	'	8	'
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred In 2012 Accident Year [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	5	'
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred In 2011 Accident Year [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	2.4	'
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred In 2010 Accident Year [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	1.6	'
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred In 2009 And Prior Accident Year [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	1	'
Personal Lines Business Unit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	1.5	2.9
E & S Commercial Business Unit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	'	1.1
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	11.7	'
Standard Commercial Business Unit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	2.4	'
Standard Commercial Business Unit [Member] | Loss Adjustment Expenses Recognized In 2010 [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	2.4	'
Hallmark Select Business Unit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	1.6	2.6
Workers Compensation Risks [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	1.2	0.8
Commercial Auto Liability [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Favorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	'	2
Auto [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	'	2.2
Low Value Dwelling/Homeowners [Member] | Personal Lines Business Unit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Causes of Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Unfavorable Adjustment to Prior Years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	'	'	'	$0.70

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement2

Share-Based Payment Arrangements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

26-May-05

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

30-May-13

Apr. 10, 2013

Jul. 27, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Incentive Stock Options 2010 [Member]

Incentive Stock Options 2011 [Member]

Incentive Stock Options 2011 [Member]

Incentive Stock Options 2011 [Member]

Non Qualified Stock Options [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

First Anniversary [Member]

Second Anniversary [Member]

Third Anniversary [Member]

Fourth Anniversary [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

5,000 Grant [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

Option Issued Prior to 2009 [Member]

5,000 Grant [Member]

10,000 Grant [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock compensation plan, number of shares authorized

'

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of incentive stock options to purchase shares of common stock outstanding

'

'

1,087,618

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of non-qualified stock options to purchase shares of common stock outstanding

'

'

304,157

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of restricted stock units to receive shares of common stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

355,277

Shares reserved for future issuance

'

'

237,115

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based payment award vesting rights

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'3 years

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of restricted stock units granted as result of meeting growth rates

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

150.00%

'

'

'

'

Number of options vested or expected to vest

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,000

5,000

'

10,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based payment, award vesting period

'

'

'6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Incentive stock options termination period

'

'

'10 years

'

'5 years

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'10 years

'10 years

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of options vested or expected to vest

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

10.00%

20.00%

30.00%

40.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements

$500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$600,000

$600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation costs expected to be recognized during remainder of 2013

52,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

67,000

Compensation costs expected to be recognized during year two

200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000

Compensation costs expected to be recognized during year three

200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000

Compensation costs expected to be recognized during year four

54,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

53,000

Compensation costs expected to be recognized during year five

3,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock Options, Granted

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Options granted, weighted average grant date fair value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$9.20

$9.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other than options, granted

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

122,823

129,463

243,006

Other than options, forfeited

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,280

'

'

6,155

Allocated share-based compensation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$58,000

$90,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement3

Share-Based Payment Arrangements (Summary of the Status of Stock Options) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-Based Payment Arrangements [Abstract]	'	'
Stock Options, Outstanding at January 1, 2013	1,404,989	'
Stock Options, Granted	'	0
Stock Options, Exercised	'	'
Stock Options, Forfeited or expired	-13,214	'
Stock Options, Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,391,775	1,404,989
Stock Options, Exercisable at September 30, 2013	1,189,036	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding at January 1, 2013	$9.63	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Forfeited or expired	$7.90	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding at September 30, 2013	$9.65	$9.63
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercisable at September 30, 2013	$10.17	'
Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding at September 30, 2013	'4 years 6 months	'
Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable at September 30, 2013	'4 years 3 months 18 days	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding at September 30, 2013	$1,327	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable at September 30, 2013	$870	'

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement4

Share-Based Payment Arrangements (Schedule of Options, Grants in Period and Grant Date Intrinsic Value) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Cost of share-based payments (non-cash)	'	'	$245	$317
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'	'
Intrinsic value of options exercised	'	'	'	'
Cost of share-based payments (non-cash)	52	64	156	317
Income tax benefit of share-based payments recognized in income	$8	$7	$23	$30

ShareBased_Payment_Arrangement5

Share-Based Payment Arrangements (Summary of the Status of Restricted Stock Units) (Details) (Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member], Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member])	0 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	30-May-13	Apr. 10, 2013	Jul. 27, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013
Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Granted	'	122,823	129,463	243,006
Forfeited	-9,280	'	'	-6,155
Nonvested at September 30, 2013	'	'	'	236,851

Segment_Information_Schedule_o

Segment Information (Schedule of Business Segment Information) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$108,613	$85,620	$301,053	$253,177
Pre-tax income (loss), net of non-controlling interest:	'	'	'	'
Pre-tax income, net of non-controlling interest	9,472	4,763	6,318	763
Standard Commercial Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Revenues	21,163	17,761	62,160	53,791
Pre-tax income (loss), net of non-controlling interest:	'	'	'	'
Pre-tax income, net of non-controlling interest	1,163	-529	641	-2,601
Specialty Commercial Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Revenues	60,787	46,373	168,127	129,812
Pre-tax income (loss), net of non-controlling interest:	'	'	'	'
Pre-tax income, net of non-controlling interest	7,564	8,287	11,828	17,193
Personal Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Revenues	21,256	21,172	64,621	68,508
Pre-tax income (loss), net of non-controlling interest:	'	'	'	'
Pre-tax income, net of non-controlling interest	-1,613	-345	-3,331	-5,747
Corporate [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Revenues	5,407	314	6,145	1,066
Pre-tax income (loss), net of non-controlling interest:	'	'	'	'
Pre-tax income, net of non-controlling interest	$2,358	($2,650)	($2,820)	($8,082)

Segment_Information_Schedule_o1

Segment Information (Schedule of Additional Business Segment Information) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Assets	$879,717	$790,468
Standard Commercial Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Assets	144,231	145,162
Specialty Commercial Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Assets	526,160	432,208
Personal Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Assets	192,588	200,356
Corporate [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Assets	$16,738	$12,742

Reinsurance_Narrative_Details

Reinsurance (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
E&S Commercial [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	$1
Proportional reinsurance retention, percentage	10.00%
Concentration of ceded credit risk, percentage	100.00%
Concentration of ceded credit risk remaining, percentage	90.00%
Excess and Umbrella Business Unit [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance retention, percentage	20.00%
Concentration of ceded credit risk, percentage	80.00%
Standard Commercial Segment [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance cede risk, percentage	100.00%
Professional Liability [Member] | Prior to June 1, 2012 [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance cede risk, percentage	40.00%
Proportional reinsurance retention, percentage	60.00%
Hallmark County Mutual [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance retention, percentage	100.00%
Catastrophe [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	6
Catastrophe [Member] | All States [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	6
Reinsurers reimbursement, percentage	100.00%
Reinsurers reimbursement retention, maximum limit	29
Reinsurers reimbursement retention, aggregate limit	58
Commercial Property [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	1
Commercial property risk value	6
Reinsurers reimbursement retention for any one disaster occurrence	10
Reinsurers reimbursement retention for each disaster occurrence	5
Reinsurers reimbursement retention, aggregate limit	30
Commercial Liability Risk [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	1
Reinsurers reimbursement retention for each disaster occurrence	5
Workers Compensation Risks [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	1
Reinsurers reimbursement, percentage	100.00%
Reinsurers reimbursement retention for each disaster occurrence	14
Reinsurers reimbursement retention, maximum limit	10
Reinsurers reimbursement retention, aggregate limit	28
Liability Loss [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance cede risk, percentage	80.00%
Personal Property [Member]	'
Proportional reinsurance cede risk, percentage	60.00%
Minimum [Member] | E&S Commercial [Member]	'
Retention for reinsurance losses	$1

Reinsurance_Schedule_of_Reinsu

Reinsurance (Schedule of Reinsurance Ceded and Recoveries) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Reinsurance [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Ceded earned premiums	$16,488	$14,141	$45,629	$40,031
Reinsurance recoveries	$9,197	$8,582	$24,770	$22,633

Revolving_Credit_Facility_Paya1

Revolving Credit Facility Payable (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Jan. 27, 2006
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility, interest rate during period	2.75%	'
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	'	$15
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	$1.50	'
Debt instrument, description of variable rate basis	'prime rate or LIBOR plus 2.5%	'
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	2.50%	'
Line of credit facility, unused capacity, commitment fee Percentage	0.25%	'
Letter of Credit [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility, commitment fee percentage	1.00%	'

Subordinated_Debt_Securities_N

Subordinated Debt Securities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended				0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 21, 2005	Jun. 25, 2005	Jun. 21, 2005	Sep. 30, 2013	Aug. 23, 2007	Aug. 23, 2007	Sep. 30, 2013
	Subordinated Debt Due In 2035 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2035 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2035 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2035 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2037 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2037 [Member]	Subordinated Debt Due In 2037 [Member]
		Trust I [Member]	Trust I [Member]	Trust I [Member]		Trust II [Member]	Trust II [Member]
Subordinated Borrowing [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term debt, gross	$30.90	'	'	$30.90	$25.80	'	$25.80
Proceeds from issuance of trust preferred securities	'	'	30	'	'	25	'
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	'	'	$0.90	'	'	$0.80	'
Subordinated borrowing, interest rate	'	'	7.73%	'	'	8.28%	'
Debt instrument, interest rate fixed to floating date	15-Jun-15	'	'	'	'	15-Sep-17	'
Debt instrument, maturity date	15-Jun-35	'	'	'	15-Sep-37	'	'
Debt instrument, description of variable rate basis	'	'interest will adjust quarterly to the three-month LIBOR rate plus 3.25 percentage	'	'	'	'three-month LIBOR rate plus 2.90 percentage	'
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	'	'	3.25%	'	'	2.90%	'

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co2

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (Deferred Amortized Policy Acquisition Costs) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Deferred	($34,995)	($12,011)	($53,243)	($45,281)
Amortized	34,715	11,084	51,211	41,427
Net	($280)	($927)	($2,032)	($3,854)

Earnings_per_Share_Narrative_D

Earnings per Share (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount	779,999	809,999	779,999	809,999

Earnings_per_Share_Schedule_of

Earnings per Share (Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding) (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Weighted average shares - basic	19,263	19,263	19,263	19,263
Effect of dilutive securities	107	14	97	4
Weighted average shares - assuming dilution	19,370	19,277	19,360	19,267

Net_Periodic_Pension_Cost_Sche

Net Periodic Pension Cost (Schedule of Net Benefit Costs) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net Periodic Pension Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Interest cost	$127	$141	$379	$422
Amortization of net loss	123	120	371	362
Expected return on plan assets	-154	-146	-462	-438
Net periodic pension cost	96	115	288	346
Contributed amount	$157	$410	$268	$711

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'
Effective income tax rate, continuing operations	23.80%	-90.00%

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Contingent liability, premium taxes	$4.50
Contingent liability, penalties and interest	$0.90

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C2

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balances (Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	$7,899	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	123	120	371	362
Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	-43	-42	-130	-127
Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	4,721	4,541	16,243	4,560
Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	-1,652	-1,589	-5,685	-1,596
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net realized gains (losses)	-6,950	-926	-9,723	-2,044
Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains and losses included in income tax expense	2,433	324	3,403	715
Other comprehensive income , net of tax	-1,368	2,428	4,479	1,870
Ending Balance	12,378	'	12,378	'
Minimum Pension Liability [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	-2,954	-2,978
Other comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	'	'	371	362
Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	'	'	-130	-127
Other comprehensive income , net of tax	'	'	241	235
Ending Balance	-2,713	-2,743	-2,713	-2,743
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	10,853	9,424
Other comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	'	'	16,243	4,560
Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	'	'	-5,685	-1,596
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net realized gains (losses)	'	'	-9,723	-2,044
Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains and losses included in income tax expense	'	'	3,403	715
Other comprehensive income , net of tax	'	'	4,238	1,635
Ending Balance	15,091	11,059	15,091	11,059
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	7,899	6,446
Other comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Change in net actuarial loss (see Note 15)	'	'	371	362
Tax effect on change in net actuarial loss	'	'	-130	-127
Net unrealized holding gains arising during the period	'	'	16,243	4,560
Tax effect on unrealized gains arising during the period	'	'	-5,685	-1,596
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net realized gains (losses)	'	'	-9,723	-2,044
Tax effect on reclassification adjustment for gains and losses included in income tax expense	'	'	3,403	715
Other comprehensive income , net of tax	'	'	4,479	1,870
Ending Balance	$12,378	$8,316	$12,378	$8,316