| Cover | Nov. 13, 2023 | Aug. 03, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 09, 2023 | |
| Entity Registrant Name | ACACIA RESEARCH CORPORATION | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
| Entity File Number | 001-37721 | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 95-4405754 | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 767 Third Avenue, | |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | 6th Floor | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | New York, | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 10017 | |
| City Area Code | 332 | |
| Local Phone Number | 236-8500 | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | true | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share | |
| Trading Symbol | ACTG | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000934549 | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
