Brokers and Dealers [Abstract] Schedule of Net Capital and Net Capital Requirements for Company's Broker-Dealer Subsidiaries [Table] Schedule of Net Capital and Net Capital Requirements for Company's Broker-Dealer Subsidiaries [Table] Schedule of net capital and net capital requirements for the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] LPL Financial LLC [Member] Lpl Financial Llc [Member] LPL Financial LLC UVEST Financial Services Group, Inc. [Member] Uvest Financial Services Group [Member] UVEST Financial Services Group. Schedule of Net Capital and Net Capital Requirements for Company's Broker-Dealer Subsidiaries [Line Items] Schedule of Net Capital and Net Capital Requirements for Company's Broker-Dealer Subsidiaries [Line Items] Schedule of net capital and net capital requirements for company's broker-dealer subsidiaries. Net capital and net capital requirements for the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract] Net Capital Net Capital Minimum Net Capital Required Minimum Net Capital Required for Broker-Dealer Subsidiary Excess Net Capital Excess Net Capital at 1500 Percent Subsequent Events [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of minimum calendar year payments and maturities of the senior secured borrowings Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract] 2012 - remainder Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2013 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total Long-term Debt Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Held-to-Maturity Securities Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Stock Repurchase Plans [Abstract] Stock Repurchase Plans [Abstract] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Outstanding borrowings Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary of minimum calendar year payments and maturities of the senior secured borrowings Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] May 2011 [Member] May 2011 [Member] May 2011 [Member] August 2011 [Member] August 2011 [Member] August 2011 [Member] May 2012 [Member] May 2012 [Member] May 2012 [Member] September 2012 [Member] [Member] September 2012 [Member] [Member] September 2012 [Member] [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Treasury Stock Acquired, Weighted-Average Cost Per Share Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Table] Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Investments by Category [Axis] Gain on Investments, Including Investments Held at Cost [Domain] Gain (Loss) on Investments, Including Marketable Securities and Investments Held at Cost, Categories of Investments [Domain] US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items] Summary of amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and fair value of securities held-to-maturity Held To Maturity Securities [Abstract] Held to maturity securities. Amortized Cost Held-to-maturity Securities Gross Unrealized Gains Held-to-maturity Securities, Unrecognized Holding Gain Fair Value Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Quarterly repayments of debt instrument [Axis] Quarterly repayments of debt instrument [Axis] Quaterly repayments of the principal of debt instrument made over stated period of time [Axis] Quarterly repayments of debt instrument [Domain] Quarterly repayments of debt instrument [Domain] Quaterly repayments of the principal of debt instrument made over stated period of time [Domain] Years one and two [Member] Years one and two [Member] Years one and two [Member] Years three, four and five [Member] Years three, four and five [Member] Years three, four and five [Member] Interest Base Rate By Type [Axis] Interest Base Rate By Type [Axis] Interest base rate by type. Interest Base Rate By Type [Domain] Interest Base Rate By Type [Domain] Interest base rate by type. Base Rate [Member] Base Rate [Member] Base rate. Libor Rate [Member] Libor Rate [Member] Libor rate. Libor Rate 3 Month [Member] Libor Rate 3 Month [Member] Libor Rate 3 Month [Member] Libor Rate 1 Month [Member] Libor Rate 1 Month [Member] Libor Rate 1 Month [Member] Alternative Base Rate [Member] Alternative Base Rate [Member] Alternative Base Rate [Member] Eurodollar Rate [Member] Eurodollar Rate [Member] Eurodollar Rate [Member] Minimum alternative base rate [Member] Minimum alternative base rate [Member] Minimum alternative base rate [Member] Repricing Transaction [Member] Repricing Transaction [Member] Repricing Transaction [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 2013 Term Loans [Member] Two Thousand Thirteen Term Loans [Member] Two thousand thirteen term loans. 2015 Term Loans [Member] Two Thousand Fifteen Term Loans [Member] Two thousand fifteen term loans. 2017 Term Loans [Member] Two Thousand Seventeen Term Loans [Member] Two thousand seventeen term loans. 2015 Term Loans and 2017 Term Loans [Member] Two Thousand Fifteen Term Loans And Two Thousand Seventeen Term Loans [Member] Two thousand fifteen term loans and two thousand seventeen term loans. Workers' Compensation Insurance [Member] Workers' Compensation Insurance [Member] Workers' Compensation Insurance [Member] PTC [Member] Subsidiary [Member] Subsidiary. San Diego Office [Member] San Diego Office [Member] San Diego Office [Member] Tranche 2013 [Member] Tranche 2013 [Member] Tranche 2013 [Member] Bank Loans Payable [Member] Bank Loans Payable [Member] Bank loans payable. Term Loan A [Member] Term Loan A [Member] Term Loan A of Credit Agreement entered into on March 29, 2012 [Member] Term Loan B [Member] Term Loan B [Member] Term Loan B of Credit Agreement entered into on March 29, 2012 [Member] Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] Revolving line of credit. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Term Loans [Member] Term Loans [Member] Term loans. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured subordinated notes Debt Instrument, Face Amount Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Deferred Finance Costs Capitalized, Credit Agreement Deferred Finance Costs Capitalized, Credit Agreement The amount (net of accumulated amortization) as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs associated with the issuance of debt instruments added for the Credit Agreement that will be charged against earnings over the life of the debt instruments to which such costs pertain. Amount of line of credit facility used to support irrevocable letters of credit Letter of Credit against Line Of Credit Facility Irrevocable letters of credit held against the revolving credit facility. Debt instrument periodic payment principal, percent Debt instrument periodic payment principal, percent Required periodic payment percentage applied to principal. Margin rate for borrowings Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Benchmark short-term interest rate Benchmark Short-term Interest Rate Benchmark Short-term Interest Rate Percentage of commitment fee Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of Financing Costs Repayment of Debt Repayment of Debt Repayment of Outstanding Debt Balance Line of credit facility maturity period extended Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Before Amendment Line of credit facility maximum borrowing capacity before amendment. Number of uncommitted lines of credit Number Of Uncommitted Lines Of Credit Number of uncommitted lines of credit mainted by the Company. Number of uncommitted lines of credit, unspecified limit Uncommitted lines of credit, unspecified limit The number of uncommitted lines of credit with an unspecified limit maintained by the Company. Uncommitted lines of credit, amount outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Notional amount of interest rate swap Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Line of Credit Facility, Average Outstanding Amount Line of Credit Facility, Average Outstanding Amount Indebtedness Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of borrowing activity in the revolving and uncommitted line of credit facilities Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility, Average Outstanding Amount Weighted-average interest rate, 3-month Long term debt, weighted average interest rate, 3-month Reflects the calculation as of the balance sheet date of the average interest rate for the three month period weighted by the amount of long-term debt outstanding by type or by instrument at that time. Weighted-average interest rate, 6-month Long term debt, weighted average interest rate, 6-month Reflects the calculation as of the balance sheet date of the average interest rate for the six-month period weighted by the amount of long-term debt outstanding by type or by instrument at that time. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2012 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2013 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2014 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and securities segregated under federal and other regulations Cash and Securities Segregated under Federal and Other Regulations Receivables from: Receivables [Abstract] Clients, net of allowance of $791 at September 30, 2012 and $716 at December 31, 2011 Receivables from Customers Product sponsors, broker-dealers and clearing organizations Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Others, net of allowances of $6,918 at September 30, 2012 and $8,833 at December 31, 2011 Other Receivables, Net, Current Securities owned: Securities Owned Abstract Securities owned: Trading — at fair value Trading Securities Held-to-maturity Securities borrowed Securities Borrowed Income taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $326,547 at September 30, 2012 and $305,143 at December 31, 2011 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Debt issuance costs, net of accumulated amortization of $3,782 at September 30, 2012 and $19,197 at December 31, 2011 Deferred Finance Costs, Net Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $227,890 at September 30, 2012 and $198,139 at December 31, 2011 Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] LIABILITIES: Liabilities [Abstract] Drafts payable Drafts Payable Payables to clients Payables to Customers Payables to broker-dealers and clearing organizations Payables to Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Accrued commissions and advisory fees payable Accrued Commissions And Advisory Fees Payable Balance of accrued commissions, recruiting bonus accruals, and other commissions payable. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Income taxes payable Taxes Payable Dividends payable Dividends Payable Unearned revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Securities sold, but not yet purchased - at fair value Securities Sold, Not yet Purchased, Fair Value Disclosure Senior secured credit facilities Deferred income taxes — net Deferred Tax Assets, Net Total liabilities Liabilities STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: Common stock, $.001 par value; 600,000,000 shares authorized; 115,431,259 shares issued at September 30, 2012, and 110,531,939 shares issued at December 31, 2011 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Treasury stock, at cost — 6,228,440 shares at September 30, 2012 and 2,617,629 shares at December 31, 2011 Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Allowances on receivable from client Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Allowances on other receivable from client Allowance for Doubtful Other Receivables, Current Accumulated depreciation and amortization, Fixed assets Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated amortization, Debt issuance costs Accumulated Amortization, Deferred Finance Costs Accumulated amortization, Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Income Statement [Abstract] REVENUES: Revenues [Abstract] Commissions Brokerage Commissions Revenue Advisory fees Investment Advisory Fees Asset-based fees Asset Based Fees Revenue recognized in the period for fees from cash sweep programs, sponsorship programs, omnibus processing and networking services. Transaction and other fees Transaction And Other Fees Revenue recognized in the period from transaction fees and ticket charges, subscription fees, IRA custodian fees, contract and license fees, conference fees and small or inactive account fees. Interest income, net of interest expense Interest Income (Expense), Net Other Other Income Total net revenues Revenues EXPENSES: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Commissions and advisory fees Commissions And Advisory Fees Gross commissions and advisory fees that are earned and paid out to customers based on the sale of various products and services, production bonuses for achieving production levels, share-based compensation expense for stock options and warrants granted to customers, and deferred commissions for customers as part of a non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Compensation and benefits Labor and Related Expense Promotional Promotional Expenses The total expense recognized in the period for promotional items and business development costs. Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Professional services Professional Fees Occupancy and equipment Occupancy, Net Brokerage, clearing and exchange Floor Brokerage, Exchange and Clearance Fees Communications and data processing Communications and Information Technology Regulatory fees and expenses Regulatory Fees And Expenses Expenses incurred during the period for regulatory memberships to FINRA and SIPC, representative licensing fees, some insurance and other regulatory fees. Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Other Other Expenses Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Non-operating interest expense Interest Expense, Subordinated Notes and Debentures Loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Total expenses Expenses Total expenses incurred in the period presented, including both operating and non-operating expenses. Excludes income tax expense. INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES Income Tax Expense (Benefit) NET INCOME Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 12): Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Net Capital and Regulatory Requirements Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Advisor and financial institution relationships [Member] Advisor And Financial Institution Relationships [Member] Advisor and financial institution relationships. Product sponsor relationships [Member] Product Sponsor Relationships [Member] Product sponsor relationships. Client relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Trade names [Member] Trade Names [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademark and trade name [Member] Trademark And Trade Name [Member] Trademark and trade name. Intangible Assets [Line Items] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted Average Life Remaining Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Definite-lived intangible assets: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Net Carrying Value Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) The components of intangible assets Schedule Of Intangible Asset [Abstract] Schedule of intangible asset. Total intangible assets Restructuring [Abstract] Restructuring [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Restructuring Charges [Member] Conversion and transfer costs [Member] Conversion and Transfer Costs [Member] Expenditures incurred for the conversion and transfer of advisors and their client accounts. Contract penalties [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Advisor retention and related benefits [Member] Advisor Retention and Related Benefits [Member] Advisor Retention and Related Benefits Expenses. Impairment in Value of Asset [Domain] Impairment in Value of Asset [Domain] Restructuring Related Costs Excluded from Total Restructuring Cost Estimate [Member] Restructuring Related Costs Excluded from Total Restructuring Cost Estimate [Member] Restructuring Related Costs Excluded from Total Restructuring Cost Estimate [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Accrued Balance, Beginning of Period Restructuring Reserve Costs incurred Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost Payments Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Non-cash Restructuring Reserve, Settled without Cash Accrued Balance, End of Period Cumulative Costs Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Total Expected Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Internally developed software Capitalized Computer Software Expected Cumulative Cost Capitalized Computer Software, Expected Cumulative Cost Finite-lived intangible assets, minimum useful lives Finite-lived intangible assets, minimum useful lives The minimum useful life of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intanbile assets that cna be grouped together becasue they are similar either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Finite-lived intangible assets, maximum useful lives Finite-lived intangible assets, maximum useful lives The maximum useful life of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Payments for software development activities Payments to Develop Software Capitalized computer software Capitalized Computer Software, Gross Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Loss Income [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive loss income. Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Contingent Consideration [Policy Text Block] Contingent Consideration [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for contingent consideration arrangements recognized in connection with a business combination, this policy represents a description of such arrangements. Receivables From and Payables To Clients [Policy Text Block] Receivables from and payables to clients. Revenue Recognition, Services, Commissions [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Management and Investment Advisory Fees, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of contingent consideration classified as a liability using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Fortigent [Member] Fortigent [Member] Fortigent Holdings Company, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries Fortigent, LLC, Fortigent Reporting Company, LLC, and Fortigent Strategies Company, LLC. Veritat [Member] Veritat [Member] [Domain] Veritat Advisors, Inc. Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Cash Placed In Escrow Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Cash Placed In Escrow Business acquisition cost of acquired entity cash placed in escrow. Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Maximum amount of contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High Estimate of future contingent consideration Estimate of future contingent consideration Estimate of future contingent consideration Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Acquisition (Note 3) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Reconciliation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Supplemental cash flow information Schedule of business acquisition cash flow supplemental disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of business acquisition cash flow supplemental disclosures. Estimated purchase price allocated to specific amortizable intangible assets Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Amortizable Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price allocation amortizable intangible assets. Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Future minimum payments under leases, lease commitments and other non cancellable contractual obligations Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Summary of amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and fair value of securities held-to-maturity Held-to-maturity Securities [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Carrying amount of indebtedness Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of indebtedness Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Summary of changes in accrued restructuring expense balances Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair value at December 31, 2011 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Issuance of contingent consideration Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Issues Change in estimated fair value of contingent consideration obligations Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair value at September 30, 2012 Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member] Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member] Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan. Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Advisors And Financial Institutions [Member] Advisors And Financial Institutions [Member] Advisors and financial institutions. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based compensation: Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Share-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Share-based compensation cost unrecognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Non-vested compensation cost weighted-average period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Shares, issued Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Common stock, stated value per share Stock Issued During Period, Per Share, Share-based Compensation Per share amount of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Stock issued during period, value, share-based compensation, gross Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross 2008 Nonqualified deferred compensation plan: Deferred Compensation Arrangements [Abstract] Common shares distributed, net of shares withheld to satisfy withholding tax requirements Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Treasury stock purchases, shares Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury stock purchases Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Other adjustments affecting effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Total amortization expense of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Summary of Activity in Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Components of intangible assets Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Weighted average share count increase due to Deferred Compensation Plan Weighted average share count increase due to Deferred Compensation Plan The increase in the weighted average share count due to a deferred compensation plan. Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of Earnings per Share amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Goodwill Accounts Receivable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables Other assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets Intangibles Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Other than Goodwill Fixed assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities Deferred income taxes - net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Taxes Asset (Liability), Net, Noncurrent Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Fixed assets useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Earnings per share reconciliation Schedule of Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Weighted average shares outstanding reconciliation Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Commitments and Contingencies [Table] Commitments and Contingencies [Table] Commitments and Contingencies [Table] Collateral Received from Client by Third Party Pledge Recipient [Axis] Collateral Received from Client by Third Party Pledge Recipient [Axis] Collateral Received from Client by Third Party Pledge Recipient [Axis] Pledge Recipient [Domain] Pledge Recipient [Domain] Pledge Recipient [Domain] Options Clearing Corporation [Member] Options Clearing Corporation [Member] Options Clearing Corporation [Member] National Securities Clearing Corporation [Member] National Securities Clearing Corporation [Member] National Securities Clearing Corporation [Member] Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items] Minimum sublease rental income Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals Operating leases rental expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net San Diego Office Lease, Future [Abstract] San Diego Office Lease, Future [Abstract] San Diego Office Lease, Future [Abstract] Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Three Years, Future San Diego Office Lease Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Three Years, Future San Diego Office Lease For the future San Diego Office Lease having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Four Years, Future San Diego Office Lease Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Four Years, Future San Diego Office Lease For the future San Diego Office Lease having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Five Years, Future San Diego Office Lease Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Five Years, Future San Diego Office Lease For the future San Diego Office Lease having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter, Future San Diego Office Lease Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter, Future San Diego Office Lease For the future San Diego Office Lease having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due after the fifth year from the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Other Commitments [Abstract] Other Commitments [Abstract] Other Commitments [Abstract] Collateral security Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value Fair value of securities received as collateral that have been resold or repledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Collateral security pledged in bank Collateral Security Pledged In Bank Collateral security pledged to bank in connection with unutilized secured margin lines of credit. Collateral security remaining unpledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Remaining Unpledged Amount Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Remaining Unpledged Amount Total remaining collateral security Fair Value of Securities Received as Collateral that Can be Resold or Repledged Receivables from clearing organizations Receivables from Clearing Organizations Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Subsequent Event Subsequent Events [Text Block] Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Hedged with interest rate swaps [Member] Debt Hedged With Interest Rate Swaps [Member] Debt hedged with interest rate swaps. Outstanding borrowings Long-term Debt, by Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] Senior secured term loans: Senior Secured Term Loan [Abstract] Senior secured term loan abstract. Balance Secured Debt Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Less current borrowings (maturities within 12 months) Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term borrowings - net of current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Uvest Financial Services Group [Member] Dividends [Abstract] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Dividends [Domain] May 2012 - Special Dividend [Member] August 2012 [Member] August 2012 [Member] August 2012 [Member] Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization and Description of the Company Nature of Operations [Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Tax expense on unrealized gain on interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Cash placed in escrow Payments to acquire business net of cash acquired Payments to acquire businesse net of cash acquired The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a business, net of the cash acquired from the purchase. Basic earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income, as reported Allocation of undistributed earnings to stock units Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities Net income, for computing basic earnings per share Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Allocation of undistributed earnings to stock units Undistributed Earnings Allocated To Participating Securities Diluted Diluted earnings allocated (not distributed) to participating securities under the two-class method to the extent that participating securities may share in earnings as if all of the earnings for the period had been distributed. Net income, for computing diluted earnings per share Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Reconciliation of weighted average shares for the basic and diluted shares computations: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive common share equivalents Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic and diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic earnings per share Diluted earnings per share Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years) Amount Assigned Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Noncash items: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Amortization of debt issuance costs Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Provision for bad debts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Deferred income tax provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Impairment of intangible assets Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Loss on extinguishment of debt Loan forgiveness Loan Forgiveness Forgiven portion of previously issued loans to certain shareholders, net of interest incurred. Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Cash and securities segregated under federal and other regulations Cash And Securities Segregated Under Federal And Other Regulations Changes In Operating Assets And Liabilities The net change during the reporting period in the amount of cash subject to withdrawal restrictions, restricted deposits held as compensating balances, and cash and securities segregated in compliance with regulations (such as cash deposited in a special reserve account for the exclusive benefit of customers pursuant). Receivables from clients Increase Decrease Receivables From Clients The net change during the reporting period in receivables from brokerage clients. Brokerage client balances include margin loans to clients stated, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. Receivables from product sponsors, broker-dealers and clearing organizations Increase (Decrease) in Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Receivables from others Increase (Decrease) in Other Receivables Securities owned Increase (Decrease) in Trading Securities Securities borrowed Increase (Decrease) in Securities Borrowed Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Drafts payable Drafts Payable Changes In Operating Assets And Liabilities The net change during the reporting period in the amounts due on drafts payable during the reporting period. Payables to clients Increase Decrease Payables To Clients The net change during the reporting period in payables to clients, includes amounts payable on cash and margin transactions, including interest on certain client balances. Payables to broker-dealers and clearing organizations Increase (Decrease) in Payables to Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Accrued commissions and advisory fees payable Changes In Accrued Commissions And Advisory Fees Payable The net change in the balance of accrued commissions, recruiting bonus accruals, and other commissions payable over the reporting period. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Income taxes receivable/payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Unearned revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Securities sold, but not yet purchased Increase (Decrease) in Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchase of securities classified as held-to-maturity Payments to Acquire Held-to-maturity Securities Proceeds from maturity of securities classified as held-to-maturity Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Held-to-maturity Securities Deposits of restricted cash Deposits Of Restricted Cash Deposits made during the period into an escrow account whose use is restricted. Release of restricted cash Release Of Restricted Cash Releases of cash during the period from an escrow account whose use is restricted. Acquisitions (Note 3) Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchases of minority interest investments Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayment of senior credit facilities Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Proceeds from senior credit facilities Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Dividends on common stock Payments of Dividends Excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Proceeds from stock options and warrants exercised Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - Beginning of period CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - End of period SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid NONCASH DISCLOSURES: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Capital expenditures purchased through short-term credit Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Fixed assets acquired under built-to-suit lease Fixed assets acquired under built-to-suit lease Fixed assets resulting from a built-to-suit lease. Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps, net of tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Discount on proceeds from senior credit facilities recorded as debt issuance costs Discount On Proceeds From Senior Credit Facilities Recorded As Debt Issuance Costs Discount on proceeds from senior credit facilities recorded as debt issuance costs Pending settlement of treasury stock purchases Settlement of Purchases of Treasury Stock Pending settlement of treasury stock purchases Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other comprehensive income, net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps, net of tax expense of $0 and $304 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, and $527 and $2,004 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, repectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Artisan Partners Limited Partnership [Member] Artisan Partners Limited Partnership [Member] Artisan partners limited partnership. American Beacon Advisor [Member] American Beacon Advisor [Member] American Beacon Advisor XOJET, Inc. [Member] XOJET [Member] XOJET, Inc. SunGard Data Systems Inc. [Member] SunGard Data Systems [Member] SunGard Data Systems Inc. Aplifi, Inc. [Member] Aplifi, Inc. [Member] Aplifi, Inc. Cresa Partners LLC [Member] Cresa Partners [Member] Cresa Partners LLC. TPG Capital [Member] TPG Capital [Member] TPG Capital SunGard [Member] SunGard [Member] [Domain] SunGard [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Revenue from related party transactions Revenue from Related Parties Related party transactions due amounts including transactions in consolidated financial statements Due from Related Parties Related party transactions expenses Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table] Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table] National Retirement Partners [Member] National Retirement Partners [Member] National retirement partners. Concord Capital Partners [Member] Concord Capital Partners [Member] Concord capital partners. Fair Value, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] BEGINNING BALANCE BEGINNING BALANCE, shares Shares, Issued Net income and other comprehensive income, net of tax expense Issuance of common stock to settle restricted stock units (Note 11) Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award Released Value of stock related to Restricted Stock Awards released during the period. Issuance of common stock to settle restricted stock units, shares (Note 11) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award Released Shares of stock related to Restricted Stock Awards released during the period. Treasury stock purchases (Note 11) Cash dividends on common stock Stock option exercises and other Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock option exercises and other, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Share-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Share-based compensation, shares Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net ENDING BALANCE ENDING BALANCE, shares Restructuring Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Security [Axis] Debt Security [Axis] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] US government notes [Member] Maturities of securities held-to-maturity Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] U.S. government notes - at amortized cost, Within 1 Year Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Net Carrying Amount U.S. government notes - at amortized cost, 1-3 Years Held To Maturity Securities Debt Maturities After One Through Three Years Net Carrying Amount This item represents debt securities, at cost, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any, which are expected to mature after one year and through three years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized as held-to-maturity. U.S. government notes - at amortized cost, Total Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Net Carrying Amount U.S. government notes - at fair value, Within 1 Year Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value U.S. government notes - at fair value, 1-3 Years Held To Maturity Securities Debt Maturities After One Through Three Years Fair Value This item represents the fair value of debt securities which are expected to mature after one year and through three years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized as held-to-maturity. U.S. government notes - at fair value, Total Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] 2012 - remainder Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets, Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Money Market Funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Mutual Funds [Member] Mutual Funds [Member] An investment vehicle that is made up of a pool of funds collected from many investors for the purpose of investing in securities such as stocks, bonds, money market instruments and similar assets. Mutual funds are operated by money managers, who invest the fund's capital and attempt to produce capital gains and income for the fund's investors. Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] US Treasury Obligations [Member] US Treasury Securities [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Security Owned and Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value [Axis] Security Owned and Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value [Axis] Security Owned and Sold, Not yet Purchased Fair Value, Security Name [Domain] Security Owned and Sold, Not yet Purchased Fair Value, Security Name [Domain] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Securities owned-trading Trading Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Other assets Other Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring Securities sold, but not yet purchased Contingent consideration obligations Interest rate swap Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Total liabilities at fair value Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Concentration Risk Credit Risk Financial Instruments Off Balance Sheet Risk [Abstract] Concentration risk credit risk financial instruments off balance sheet risk. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance-Sheet Credit Risk and Concentrations of Credit Risk Concentration Risk Credit Risk Financial Instruments Off Balance Sheet Risk [Text Block] Description of financial instruments, excluding certain derivatives, with off-balance sheet credit risk (for example, standby letters of credit or financial guarantees), including (1) information about the (shared) activity, region or economic characteristic that identifies the concentration, (2) the face or contract amount of the instrument, (3) the nature and terms of the instrument, including the market risk, cash requirements and accounting policies for it, (4) the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that would be incurred if the counterparties failed completely to perform according to the terms of the contracts, and any security or collateral that proved to be of no value, (5) the entity's policy of requiring collateral or other security to support financial instruments subject to credit risk, information about access to collateral or other security, and a brief description of the security supporting those financial instruments, and (6) the policy of entering into and a brief description of master netting arrangements to mitigate the credit risk, and the extent to which such arrangements would reduce the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk.