This paper argues that legislative intervention rather than deontological rules could be an adequate tool to address academic integrity concerns, particularly in civil law jurisdictions, which is the case in the majority of European countries. The recently enacted Montenegrin law on academic integrity offers a promising foundation for developing such an intervention in the European context, along with suggested improvements drawing upon four years of the implementation experience. Analysis of the law is also conducted with regard to several provisions of the Council of Europe's recently adopted Recommendation on Education Fraud. The paper does not offer a ready-made concept, but its deliberation can serve as an inspiration for governments trying to improve existing rules on academic integrity. A legal approach will be taken in examining the problems and the relevant legislation.