N.Y. Surr. Ct. Proc. Act § 1114

§ 1114. Inquiry and subpoena\n 1. The public administrator may institute an inquiry in any case in\nwhich he is authorized to act as to any matter affecting the estate of\nthe decedent.\n 2. For that purpose he may issue a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum\neither before or after the issuance of letters in the name of the court\nwith the same effect as if either were issued by the court.\n 3. Failure to comply with the directions of the subpoena or subpoena\nduces tecum shall be punishable as a contempt of court.\n