so for starters, my cousin is putting on a game of D&D in about a month, kicker is that no one knows the game well enough, so we just finished our character sheets today save for our backstories. i have a question about the features first of all, among other things of course. we are all starting at level 1 to hopefully even things out some. so as a paladin at level 1 you get the features: Divine Sense, and Lay On Hands. do you get both of them immediately or can you choose only one of them? if need be i can try to find a way to post my character sheet.

When in doubt, check the rules.

From Basic Rules/Player's Handbook chapter 1, Step-By-Step Characters:

On your character sheet, record all the features that your class gives you at 1st level.

This bit is from the start of chapter 2:

Each class entry in this chapter includes a table summarizing the benefits you gain at every level, and a detailed explanation of each one.

The Paladin class table lists both Divine Sense and Lay On Hands on the row for 1st level, so you get both.

Some of the features you get at higher levels will involve making choices, like the Fighting Style feature at 2nd level and Sacred Oath at 3rd level. Just read the description of each feature and you'll be fine.

that is very helpful, thank you