New York Consolidated Laws, Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law - RPA § 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.