I'm giving the game a try and not super great with the character rules. I like the interesting powers and bonuses Paladins get, but I'm not really interested in the actual magical spells they get. Am I better off rolling a character that I multiclass into a Champion of Torm?

I've also read something about a cap of 20 bonus points for saving throws from gear, and that the Champion of Torm's Sacred Defense counts towards that cap. Does a Paladin/Blackguard charisma bonus for saving throws also count?

If I decide to go with an evil character, are the things a Blackguard can summon any good at distracting enemies to set up sneak attacks? Do you get lots of evil dialogue options with Persuade, or is that what Intimidation is used for?

I appreciate any input, I'm reading FAQs but I don't totally understand the system.