N.Y. Real Property Actions & Proceedings Law § 911 (2026)

§ 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.