N.Y. Real Property Actions & Proceedings Law § 911: Ascertainment of rights of parties before interlocutory judgment on default or admission or where party is an infant, absentee or unknown...

§ 911. Ascertainment of rights of parties before interlocutory

judgment on default or admission or where party is an infant, absentee

or unknown defendant.

If a defendant has made default in appearing or pleading, or the

rights of the parties are not controverted, or a party be an infant,

absentee or unknown, the court shall ascertain the rights, shares and

interests of the several parties in the property, by a reference or

otherwise, before interlocutory judgment is rendered.