You see, even by having played the game a while ago, there are so many things four you that are new.
by starting over it depends on what you want to do:
interested in PVP?
Yes, you should definitely start over, so you will get into a new shard without GLs all over it.
Only interested in PVE stuff?
no need for starting over. BUT: hardcore focus on your farming plans.
stick with your JKR Team. JKR, Bastilla, Jolee, JKA, GK.
this team well modded will cause some trouble for other people.
OR go for Padme:
Padme, JKA, Ahsoka, GK, GMY
if you want to stick with sith/empire:
EP, Vader, Thrawn, Traya, Dooku
Again: well modded and geared will bring some problem for your opponent.
and you can focus as long term goal on SEE by gearing them.
dig into some vids on youtube about modding and how they should be sliced, etc. - this will be much faster than someone on forums can describe to you.
dont spread yourself too much. in the end it will cost you a lot of money without the result you were hoping for.
and for fleets:
focus on GK and his Nego. you already have him and JKA reliced.
even at 5 stars he will be better than Thrawn. try to get the GR Bomber an get Plo Koons ship ready as reinforcement. Gear 12 is enough for him.
with this lineup you wont have a problem stayin top 10
