117 - Powers of official referees.

§  117.  Powers  of official referees.   As to all motions, actions or  proceedings submitted to an  official  referee  by  stipulation  of  the  parties  appearing  therein,  or  order of the court, except matrimonial  actions, the same shall be deemed duly referred to said official referee  and he shall proceed therein with the same  power  and  authority  as  a  justice  presiding  at  a  regular special term of the supreme court and  entertain and grant motions for a new trial, grant stays and  orders  to  show  cause,  and he shall have similar jurisdiction and authority as to  any other action or proceeding referred to him by order of  the  supreme  court  including matrimonial actions.  Every official referee shall have  the power to administer oaths and take acknowledgments; the violation of  an order of such official referee may be punished as for a  contempt  of  court by the court at special term.