§ 16. Examination of witnesses. 1. The judge may also, at any time, on
petition of the assignee or any party interested, order the examination
of witnesses and the production of any books and papers by any party or
witness before him or before a referee appointed by him for such
purpose, or before the assignee who shall have power to administer
oaths, compel the attendance of witnesses, and production of books,
records and papers by the issuance of subpoena, and the evidence so
taken, together with books and papers, or extracts therefrom, as the
case may be, shall be filed in the county clerk's office, and may be
used in evidence by any creditor or assignee in any action or proceeding
then pending, or which may hereafter be instituted.

2. In any examination ordered pursuant to subdivision one of this
section, the court may confer immunity in accordance with the provisions
of section 50.20 of the criminal procedure law; provided, however, that
no immunity shall be conferred except upon twenty-four hours prior
written notice to the appropriate district attorney having an official
interest therein.