Hello EvilHomer,
Most people will never see a silence. Fewer still will experience anything other than a short period of time. Sadly, those who are repeatedly toxic will be penalized with increasing account actions and eventually removed from the game should they persist.
If you wish to appeal, or have your account action explained to you, please see:
https://eu.battle.net/support/en/help/product/diablo3/289/1394/solution