My question is about genital herpes, either HSV-1 or HSV-2: 

how soon after a potential infection would I present symptoms? is this always the case? does having oral herpes protect me somewhat?

I had unprotected intercourse a few days ago, didn't notice any weird lesions or sores on my partner but of course I am now wondering if I was at risk of infection.

Someone recently infected would present symptoms within 2-10 days after infection. However, not everyone who acquires HSV 2 has symptoms then or ever. Your HSV 1 doesn't protect you against HSV 2, but it does make the acquisition of HSV 2 more likely to be without symptoms or have very mild symptoms.  

Unprotected intercourse is always a risk but the question is whether the partner was infected or not and we often don't know for sure, right?

Terri