hello, i hope maybe you can take something away from my post. First and foremost, i am glad to hear that you are in treatment, it helps soo much, especially in the beginning when it seems like problem after problem is dropping into your lap. I am also very happy that your wife is understanding and supportive. Since i've been lurking around this and other sites, it seems for every 1 discouraging person, you will find 20 encouraging ones.
first, i am a convicted felon, (DUI- 2 in a row) i am currently in the process of being reinstated through the nursing boards (2 states). I have been in recovery nearly 3 years. My mess is big and scattered, but there is a way to get throught it!! It took me a long time to even decide i wanted to remain a nurse. The waiting was what i hated. I'm not a lawyer, but from what i have heard, it is best to wait as long as possible before getting sentenced. what you can prove to the court between your getting caught and your sentencing (abstinence, meetings, treatment) will be a HUGE help to your case.
Hopefully with a lawyer, cooperation from you, and a CONSISTENT and documented recovery(make 5 copies of everything b/c everyone will want one- LOL), your problems will not take as long to resolve. First, get to the diversion program throught missouri before action on your license begins, once that begins you will have a slew of other troubles. (OIG revocation, etc) although you will not having anything on your actual nursing license this way, you will have to disclose everything to a potential employer anyhow (most likely part of returning to work will involve monitoring and probation)
i am not familiar with your state, but i believe most states will work with you as long as you are sincerely recovering/sorry/learned your lesson/scared as hell/ truly want to remain a nurse/ etc. even with a felony, i believe you will be able to keep your nursing license. as far as employers hiring with a felony, or even having a "charge" of something without a conviction, i don't know. that is where i will be soon. it will probably take me another year to even be able to look. From what i have read, it seems that a lot of places will work with you if you are sincere and open from the beginning. finding one will probably stink, lol, but i am remaining optimistic, and so should you!!!
good luck to you!!!