The court or a commissioner may direct any claimant to appear, upon reasonable notice, before the court or one of its judges or commissioners or before a notary and be examined on oath or affirmation concerning any matter pertaining to his claim. The examination shall be reduced to writing and be filed with the clerk of the court and remain as a part of the evidence in the case. If any claimant, after being so directed and notified, fails to appear or refuses to testify or answer fully as to any material matter within his knowledge, the court or commissioner may order that the case be not heard or determined until he has complied fully with the direction of the court.
705 ILCS 505/12