[Bozos of Bones]

Well the first character looks OK, human is a great and often overlooked race, so I'd go along with that one. It is not particulary worth nerfing INT as a monk is a very handy character once he learns how to effectively hide and sneak. Drow would still be a preferred class for paladin or monk for me.
Tiefling is my favorite race in he game, next to Drow. I'd start a rogue for the skill points, rangers get nothing as a first level. Light armor all the way, and when you hit 20, just wait and put points into other stats untill you get a certain item. In my experience, rogues are the best party leaders for their massive skill points and all three convo skills cost 1.
Ah, the eternal debate, sorceror or wizard... I like wizards better for their versatility and faster spell gaining. Sorcerors can barage an area full of fireballs, but wizards have the feats, weapon proficiencies and variety.
If you want protection-oriented take Ilmater, he even has a sub-quest later. It's a durable character with great abilities. Don't underestimate the power of undead turning!