My girl friend got arrested today 2c:20-11b(1). This was her…

Unfortunately, the statute doesn't give a time period during which the convictions must be (like some states will say "3 convictions within 10 years" or something similar). New Jersey doesn't have that provision:

"Additionally, notwithstanding the term of imprisonment provided in N.J.S.2C:43-6 or 2C:43-8, any person convicted of a shoplifting offense shall be sentenced to perform community service as follows: for a first offense, at least ten days of community service; for a second offense, at least 15 days of community service; and for a third or subsequent offense, a maximum of 25 days of community service and any person convicted of a third or subsequent shoplifting offense shall serve a minimum term of imprisonment of not less than 90 days."

It is a good idea for her to get a lawyer regardless, because a judge could sentence her up to six months instead of just the minimum 90 days. Since her last offense was a while ago, it is unlikely that they will throw the book at her other than the required 90 days, but it is still good for her to have someone advocating on her behalf. If she can't afford an attorney, she may want to see if she is eligible for a public defender by contacting their office. If she is convicted, however, there's not much even a lawyer can do about the 90 days...it is required by law so even if the judge wanted to avoid sentencing her to that time, he would not be able to avoid it.