Have you looked to see if this law firm can actually practice law in NY? What is the name of the law firm?
The debt seems to still be in statute. have you disputed the account with your credit reports?
Has this law firm contacted you in writing yet? If they have not, then after that phone call, they have 5 days to send you something in writing. You then have 30 days to dispute the debt under the FDCPA and if NY has debt collection laws, them too. You can search the internet for a "sample debt validation letter"
Once they get this letter no collection activity can be taken, and that includes litigation, if they sue you during a dispute you can file a counter-suit against them.
One last thing, DO NOT I repeat DO NOT send a limited cease and desist or a cease and desist letter. Telling them not to contact you anymore opens you up to a lawsuit. There is no need for a C&D and a limited one will be taken as a FULL C&D by most debt collectors. They cannot call or contact you anyway during a dispute so it is useless. If they do try to collect you can sue them, which I would rather let violations build up to have a better case.
Make sure you send the DV letter certified mail return receipt requested. Keep the green card when you get it back.

