§ 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.
