§ 1071. Plaintiff may consent to receive a gross sum. In an action for dower, the plaintiff may, at any time before an interlocutory judgment is rendered, by reason of the defendant's default in appearing or pleading, or, where an issue of fact is joined, at any time before the commencement of the trial, file with the clerk a consent to accept a gross sum, in full satisfaction and discharge of her right of dower in the real property described in the complaint. Such a consent must be in writing, and acknowledged or proved, and certified, in like manner as a deed to be recorded. A copy thereof, with notice of the filing, must be served upon each adverse party who has appeared, or who appears after the filing.