The first thing I would tell you is to NOT rock the boat until you are 100% sure you are past the SOL and then wait a month after the date you are sure. OOS debt (out of statute) debt is generally not handled by primary CAs because they lack any real leverage to collect since they can't file suit or get a default judgment. Typically OOS debt is resold to those companies that work this kind of debt (think LVNV as an example).
The good news is each time debt is sold it becomes cheaper to the buyer with OOS going for the least, maybe 1% of face value which gives YOU leverage in a discounted PFD offer. The debt does not go away just because its past SOL. Frankly companies like LVNV will do as many nasty things to your credit report as possible to get your attention, but if you want to settle wait another month or two and see who continues to own the account. I've never dealt directly with Midland, but I hear they are on the same level as LVNV. If its still Midland, no problem, just be sure to mention the fact the account is time barred in your PFD letter and it should help you settle the account.
As far as the Shell card you can DV that first just so you know its yours, then roll it into your PFD offer. Just remember that while you want to ethically settle those debts that are yours, the OC has already written the debts off as a charge off and the CA/JDB did not pay close to the face value for the debt. With OOS debt you have the advantage in settlement talks as long as you don't mind the "games" the CA/JDB will try to play with your credit report.
